Core Values: Do You Talk It or Live It?

When it comes to service, there are always people willing to offer their support for their local community. With an outpouring of support, there can sometimes be a gap for people who do follow through on their community commitments. Rather than just “talking the talk”, members of a local community should simply “walk the walk.” Actively supporting your local community helps foster a sense of growth and unity, but understandably can illicit hesitation.

This hesitation can stem from fear of misrepresentation if you volunteer for something that appears unpopular or controversial in a civic or charitable manner. Yet, in such situations, you should remember that volunteering your services will improve the community even if others don’t agree. At such crucial moments, you must become a teacher. You must educate your peers that your efforts will better the community. Helping others in need, regardless of the cause, only serves for continued growth within a community.

Another reason for not contributing might be a lack of drive to see the action through. At times we all become lazy or lose interest in things about which we previously cared. You need to push yourself to do what you set out to do. Force yourself off your couch or cancel your planned weekend outing to help at your local community center. Taking action once will make it easier to do so again. You will make friends with others who are helping and they will encourage your future community endeavors.

When you live what you preach, you show accountability. No one will tell you that you aren’t making an impact. You will become a leader in your community. You will set an example for your neighbors and friends. They will see what you are doing, follow your actions, and learn that it is not hard to take a stand for something they believe in.

Get involved in your community. When you see the opportunity make meaningful change, make an action plan. The first time might be scary but the benefit to the community will be great. Volunteering can only create new connections with your neighbors and create tighter bonds in your community.

So, what’s stopping you from becoming a doer?