During the trying times facing communities throughout the world, hope is sparked from volunteers that step up to make a difference, often putting valuable time, and sometimes their lives on the line. Some of these volunteers are not just adults, but also students striving to do their part within the community.

With COVID-19 it is hard to become a volunteer without facing a considerable risk of contracting the virus, and because of this, students are having a hard time finishing their necessary volunteer hours. We all know that being apart from people is beyond difficult, but you can still do your part from afar. 

Seventy-five percent of deaths caused by COVID-19 are people over the age of 70, and this has led to increased distance from the outside world for senior centers around the country. For many months, seniors have lived without seeing their loved ones and have had no contact with most of the outside world. This is only one example of the millions of people suffering from loss, starvation, debt, homelessness, and many other issues. Now, what can you do to help your community from the comfort of your home?

One of the most basic yet meaningful ways to help during this time is simply to give hope and love to others utilizing a card or homemade gift. For example, you can produce twenty cards that each have a personal note, lifting that person from reality for just a second, making them realize, everything might just be okay. Although this may not always be possible, simply call some elderly neighbors, nurses, and any other frontline worker that you know and lift their spirits during these unprecedented times. 

For some, this option would be an easy way to change lives, but for others, it might only be a starting point. If you truly want to make a difference and still stay safe, then you can become a virtual volunteer. The American Red Cross offers a program that allows you to become a Digital Advocate allowing teens to use their social media skills to share Red Cross content and even organize fundraisers. 

Another organization that allows you to make an impact virtually is the Points of Light group, which allows you to engage with 5 million people across 37 countries. The group connects you with other pandemic oriented causes including email marketing for COVID-19 charities, writing letters to frontline workers, and facilitating food drives for needy families. 

Not only do people affected by the virus need support for meals and shelter, but also education, as the virus has halted many citizens’ learning due to other prioritized issues. High school students have the chance to tutor other students impacted by the virus, helping them regain their educational position. Organizations such as Teensgive.org allow individuals in 9th-12th grade to help peers in struggling subjects. This can be an appealing option to anyone that has a clear passion and talent in any given area. 

Lastly, If you are willing to go out and volunteer, there is an endless amount of opportunities to help others in need. For example sign up to help local food banks, create care packages for the homeless, help in food lines that deliver meals to families, donate blood or plasma, or even simply purchase from a local business. You can also use VolunteerMatch to find other volunteer opportunities near you.

During these troubling times, we all need a little hope, so please consider helping your community and doing your part to impact the lives of others, as we are all in this together, as mankind.