Weekly Challenge
It’s Monday and you know what that means: I’m back with your weekly challenge. This week we’re turning our attention outwards and focusing on something that’s guaranteed to boost your mood: giving back. 

I know that juggling jobs, kids and households can mean a never-ending to do list. I get it- there are never enough hours in the day. So keeping this in mind, I’m making this challenge small but powerful: donate one hour of your time this week. 

Here are some suggestions for places that would love to have the help:

  1. Soup kitchens 
  2. Animal shelters 
  3. Local schools 
  4. Charity-run thrift shops 
  5. Nursing homes 
  6. Student mentorship programs 
  7. Libraries 

There are also some great websites that offer suggestions for specific charities near you. Check out Do Something; The Good Guide to Volunteering; or Volunteer Match for volunteer opportunities near you. 

And keep in mind that giving back doesn’t have to be organized- maybe you’d like to make some sandwiches to pass out to the homeless near you, or write letters to the soldiers abroad- any way you can give back is a good way. 

Good luck and let me know how it goes in the comments below! 

Here are some success stories from last week’s challenge:

  • Jaime Habersat - I do something like this every time I purchase a new article of clothing that goes in the closet.  If I buy 1 piece 2 has to come out, 2 pieces 3 has to come out.  That way my closet does not get bogged down with tons of clothes that I don't wear, and I can see better what I have and don't have, need or don't need.  Buy something new, donate something old.  Simple and easy!!!
  • Ronda Cuff Clevenger - Ty - one step ahead of you this week, after watching you clear out the garage for Sara I looked at my closets and said IT'S time.  Hubbie did not even miss anything LOL.  ALL of my closets and kitchen pantry look amazing.  Thanks for the inspiration ~ and keep them coming!

Related Stories:
Weekly Challenge: Give Thanks
Weekly Challenge: Clean Out That Closet 

Image Source: HandsonBlog.org

My son Timothy was the one to put in the hours to take care of 40 cats inside and outside when I took my trip to Florida. I asked him if it was hard and he said not really hard but he said he became very tired. This week I will look to volunteer outside of my home. A big thanks to my son Timothy for volunteering for his mother.

- Feb 7, 2012

I have been so busy with school this last semester,I know I won't find time to even give an hour to be honest, but this is somethin I can do during the summer. I have barel had time to be on here. I graduate this year so I have a heavy case load of school work.  Thanks for the ideas Mr. P.

- Feb 7, 2012

Well, I've already got this done. I'm the President of the Nonprofit/Volunteering club at my college, and it's a blast. We're looking to do a ton of stuff this semester!

- Feb 7, 2012

I volunteer on a regular basis - love to pay it forward and add value to others! So many have helped me. I know what its like to be in need. Now I am in a position to help others. Mondays I help teach ESL (English as Second Language) classes. I was there for over an hour! So much fun to learn about other cultures and to help them understand the English language!

- Feb 7, 2012

Hi Ty, I know EM is over with...I have a friend who is very sick. She has diabetic pyrosis. She has beed vomiting for over 2 years now. She will be without health insurance the next 6 months.She has 2 boys 17 and 14 yrs. She is a wonderful person. I worked with for 17 years in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Nashville TN whare I watched he r poor herself into helping the lives of premature infants. She needs help...She needs money and the inside of her home needs a lot of work. My question Ty is how can I get her an extreme makeover. I have a lot of friends who are willing to help but as far as the donations for supplies and such...well I am just at a loss.. Is there anyway you can help ? She has helped so many babies and families I wish there was a way I could get her a huge blessing in return.. Please help! I saw what a kind and giving person you are by watching your show. Maybe you know people in the Nashville area who would be willing to donate. Thank you for your consideration.Any suggestions for be more than appreciated. Best regards, Cindy Olsen

- Feb 8, 2012

I'm disabled and there isn't a lot that I can do on a physical basis, but I do serve on the board of education at our church and I teach release time, which is a one-hour bible study each Friday morning for children in the 3rd-6th grades at the church. It can be kind of challenging at times because the kids are full of energy, but it's also very rewarding. It's hard to find people who are willing to give up an hour of their time for our kids each week. I'm thankful that this is something I'm able to do.  smiley-smile.gif

- Feb 8, 2012

I know that to spend our time for the others it should be a natural thing and waiting your weekly challenge to do it, I have felt ill at ease. But the most important thing is to make the first step and I want to thank you to keep our attention to help people who need. I chose to help an old lady of my family that I had wiped from my memories, she is in a clinic to spend the rest of her life. Seeing in her eyes I understand how much stupid I am and how much beautiful is to take care of people who need. And I promise this is just a first step. Love 1 - Grudge 0

- Feb 13, 2012

I donate my time weekly as a Brownie Leader here in London but it takes a lot more than an hour a week! It is great fun and we are currently looking forward to the weekend away we are planning in June.

- Feb 15, 2012