Supporting the local economy by sharing means beyond money
Last week Oprah donated a whopping $12 million in grants to organizations focused on helping under-served communities among six cities that she's called home. That announcement included an invitation to step up and determine where our service is most essential for local communities.
Obviously we don't all have comparable monetary means to so graciously share with those around us, but that does not mean we are void of means to share.
"So my thing is, look in your own neighborhood, in your own backyard to see how you can serve and where your service is most essential." -Oprah Winfrey
We're largely taught that the most evident way of supporting the economy is to purchase things with money, to donate money, to feed into the cycle of monetary inflow and outflow. And, while evident, it is far from the only way.
The word economy is actually defined as "a system of making and trading things of value, usually divided into goods (physical things) and services (things done by people)." By this definition the things we create and ways that we hold space for others become forms of currency.
And when it comes to bolstering ourselves, our loved ones, and our community we each have an abundance of tools, skills, and resources at our disposal through which add value to the surrounding economy.
Not sure what alternative modes of currency are at your disposal? Maybe these suggestions will help with your personal inventory-taking:
Time: We've all felt the value of undivided attention from another human being, especially when times are feeling tough. Investing focus into another person, whether to share an ear or lend a hand turns time into a currency that helps to fuel the local economy.
Food and water: More glaringly than has been known to most that are alive, a large amount of the collective has recently encountered a genuine fear of not being able to provide themselves and their families with food and water.
Help remind those around you that we are in this together by sharing some of the basic human needs that you do have...
Got a garden? Share some of the harvest with your neighbors.
Want to learn how to grow a garden with food scraps you already accumulate (hello, resiliency)? Reach out to a local farmer, many of which would LOVE to share their wealth of knowledge.
Got a local food bank you can donate excess items to or volunteer with? Research the details and get involved
And remember that there is no shame at all in being the one(s) needing such assistance. The resources that I'm writing about are there, equally, for you to tap into.
"I think that people will find a tremendous joy and fulfillment in service to other human beings, and that often this is what is missing in their lives." -Ram Dass
Nature: Nature is a currency with a value of its own magnitude. Not only in the way that insects pollinate crops and trees provide oxygen; our overall wellbeing profits from it! Nature heals, restores, soothes, and connects us. So unplug and get outside. Even better, take a friend with you and share the wealth!
Creative energy: Have you always been one to spearhead a project inspired by a pinterest post, host craft nights, or simply enjoy creatively expressing yourself? That's quite a gift....a currency, if you will! Some suggestions for sharing the value of that gift include:
Get creative with kids in the community. Many parents could benefit from some extra assistance with their child(ren), especially in terms of providing creative play and challenge. Let parents in your neighborhood know you're able to help in this regard. Maybe even sign up to host a fun craft session for kids at the local YMCA.
Are you a theatrical personality? There are always groups of kids and senior citizens that would find great value in being read to. The currencies of laughter and compassion paired with creativity is a winning combination for all.
Regardless of how you serve, the ripple of the benefits is undeniable. We, as a collective, are becoming increasingly aware that money is not the only way to fuel the economy. And we each have the ability to embody that awareness, one action of loving service at a time.
Learn more about Sam Jump here.
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