You don't have to be Bill Gates to make a difference to the people and the city of Cleveland. There are many things to can do that don't cost money or cost very little...not to mention the satisfaction of helping others. Set aside some time each week to invest in Cleveland.
Vote!
(Mike Simons/Getty Images)
The most important thing you can do to contribute to the city is to vote. Ohio elections are held the first Tuesday of May and November each year. You must register at least 30 days prior to the election and be a resident for at least 30 days.
But, you have to do more than register. In most elections, less than 50 percent of registered voters actually make it to the polls. Don't let this be you. Let your voice be heard. We owe it to our veterans, our founding fathers, and our children.
But, you have to do more than register. In most elections, less than 50 percent of registered voters actually make it to the polls. Don't let this be you. Let your voice be heard. We owe it to our veterans, our founding fathers, and our children.
Give Blood
(Tim Boyle/Getty Images)
Cleveland's hospitals rely on blood donations for their whole blood and platlet supply. You never know when you or someone you love will need a transfusion. To donate, you must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 lbs., and be in good health. You may donate blood once every 56 days. For Red Cross bloodmobile events in Cuyahoga County, click here.
Recycle
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Cleveland's recycling efforts grow better each year. Now, 32 locations around the city accept glass, aluminum cans, plastic containers, cardboard, paper, and plastic bags. The hours are flexible and there's no sorting. In addition, special dates are set each year for collecting computer equipment, hazardous items such as paint, and motor oil. It's a great way to reduce the waste going to landfills.
Mentor a Child
(Dean Purcell/Getty Images)
Just four hours a month can change a child's life...and yours too. Children with mentors are 52 percent less likely to skip school and 46 percent less likely to use illegal drugs. You don't need any special skills. You can take your little brother or sister to get pizza with you...or shopping...or fishing...whatever you would normally do. For more information on the Big Brother, Big Sister Program in Cleveland, click here.
Volunteer
Consider setting an hour or a half-day (or evening) aside for volunteer work. Whether you greet visitors at the zoo, help in one of the area's food pantries, or share your business acumen with struggling small businesses, there's an organization that can use your skills. For a partial list of opportunities, see:Plant a Row for the Hungry
One of the easiest ... and almost free ... ways to help Cleveland's hungry citizens is to donate your extra zucchini, tomatoes, and other fruit and vegetables from your garden to the nearest food pantry. Such pantries generally have much more canned food than they have fresh produce. For the kitchen nearest you, see America's Second Harvest. Don't worry that you don't have bushels of produce. Even one small bag helps.Start a Neighborhood Watch Program
Neighborhood Watch provides the opportunity for residents to work with the police in establishing community crime prevention programs designed to meet their own particular needs. Residents work together to look out for each other's homes, vehicles and neighborhood area businesses. For help and issues in starting your own group, visit this brochure website from the National Sheriff's association.Save Energy
That extra light you leave on or your car left idling while your friend runs into the store all wastes precious energy, not to mention money. Learn to be aware of the energy you use. Read "Ten Ways to Save Energy Now" from the About Guide to Saving Energy and [http://environment.about.com/od/globalwarming/a/globalwarming10.htm]"Ten Things to Do to Stop Global Warming" from the About Guide to Environmental Issues.Live Organically
Living organically is also about being aware. Learn to control pests and fertilize your garden via natural means. Consider "green" methods of remodeling, such as using bamboo floors instead of hardwood. (They are just as beautiful.) Get the basics of organic gardening from the About Guide to Gardening.Move Back to the City
Cleveland's neighborhoods need new energy, new ideas, and new families. We need to replace the ubiquitous boarded up buildings with restored homes.There are a number of financial incentives for relocating to Cleveland, including tax abatements, low-interest loans, and grant money for paint and other improvements. Click for information on these programs in Tremont and Ohio City.
