As we stand on the threshold of a new year, resolutions to improve ourselves often dominate our thoughts. Whether it’s shedding those holiday pounds, hitting the gym, or enhancing our financial management skills, personal goals take center stage. However, in the spirit of the upcoming new year, let’s not forget to include our community in our resolutions. The start of a new year is the perfect time to make a commitment to bettering not just ourselves but also the place we call home.
The Power of Change:
Socrates once said, “The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” These words resonate deeply as we contemplate the changes we want to make in the coming year. Instead of battling the old habits, let’s channel our energy into constructing a better, more vibrant community for all.
Shiawassee Community Foundation’s 50th Anniversary:
In 2024, the Shiawassee Community Foundation (ShiaCF) will be celebrating its 50th anniversary. For half a century, ShiaCF has played a pivotal role in impacting Shiawassee County positively. Through grants supporting local nonprofits, annual scholarships facilitating educational pursuits, and various community initiatives, ShiaCF has been a beacon of good in Shiawassee County.
The #ShiaCF50 Challenge:
To commemorate this milestone, we invite you to join us in the #ShiaCF50 challenge. The goal is simple: contribute to the betterment of Shiawassee County in various ways throughout the year. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
- Donate $50: Contribute $50 to your favorite fund at the Shiawassee Community Foundation.
- Volunteer 50 Hours: Dedicate 50 hours of your time to a cause or organization that aligns with your passions throughout the year.
- Facebook Fundraiser: Set up a Facebook fundraiser to raise $50 for your preferred Shiawassee County nonprofit.
- Donate 50lbs of Food: Donate 50lbs of non-perishable food to your favorite food pantry.
- Donate 50 Pieces of Pizza: An average large pizza is 8 slices. Order a pizza or two per month and surprise an organization that is going above and beyond, hardworking teachers, coworkers or anyone who needs a bit of pizza in their life.
- Donate 50 Items: Collect and donate 50 articles of clothing, blankets, basic needs, or food to your favorite local nonprofit or food pantry.
- 50 Hours Distraction Free: Spend 50 hours this year disconnected and get involved with your kids school, work volunteer efforts, nature and more. Spend the 50 hours focused spreading kindness.
- Give 50 Compliments: Give 50 compliments this year and make those around feel the love!
- Give 50 Hours to the American Red Cross of Mid-Michigan – The Red Cross is always looking for volunteers to provide administrative support, fundraising, calling to thank donors, school clubs and more!
- Clean Our Community: Spend 50 hours cleaning our community this year. Take two 30 minute walks around your neighborhood per week and pick up trash.
- Donate 50 Books: Donate 50 books to free little libraries around Shiawassee County.
- Share 50 Posts: This year share 50 of your favorite nonprofits posts on Facebook.
- Donate 50 Bottles of Water: No one should ever be without clean drinking water. Donate 50 bottles of water to a nonprofit.
- Leave 50 Reviews or Recommendations: Many small businesses in Shiawassee County struggle with reviews. Spend time this year leaving 50 engaging reviews to your favorite businesses or leave 50 recommendations on LinkedIN!
- Donate 50lbs of Pet Food: Shiawassee County Humane Society and other local organizations are always in the need for pet food!
- Donate 50 pencils, notebooks or supplies: Donate educational necessities to local Shiawassee County schools.
- Community Betterment: Spend 50 hours engaging in activities you love that contribute to the betterment of your community.
- Share on Social Media: Document and share your acts of kindness on social media using the hashtag #Shia50. Let’s create a ripple effect of positivity that reverberates throughout the community.
Have an idea how to transform your community? Leave your ideas below!
As we embark on this new year, let’s make a resolution to not only transform ourselves but also to be the catalysts for positive change in Shiawassee County. Every act of kindness, no matter how big or small, contributes to the collective effort of building a stronger, more vibrant community. Join us in the #ShiaCF50 challenge and let’s celebrate the spirit of giving and community together throughout the entire year. Together, we can make a lasting impact and create a legacy of kindness for generations to come.