It’s no secret that there is so much negativity going on in the world around us. Between the horrible news reports, craziness in politics and the uncertainty of the future, it can sometimes make us feel a little helpless. To combat this feeling, here’s a list of 5 simple things that you and your youth group can do to serve your community and share some positivity!

1. Clean out that closet

Let’s be honest…teenagers tend to hang on to clothes that they will never wear again. Why not go through and purge? There are so many community clothes closets that are always looking for clothes to fit teens! It’s a perfect opportunity to organize while helping someone else.

2. Help out a local food bank

Food banks help supply food for homeless shelters. They are always in need of volunteers to help organize inventory, deliver food to shelters, etc. You can find a food bank closest to you by clicking here http://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank/.

3. Run, run, run!

Many charities and non-profit organizations hold marathons to raise money for their cause. They are usually well advertised beforehand to give you plenty of time to prepare. Get some friends together and get in some good exercise while benefiting some awesome causes!

4. Volunteer

Homeless shelters, battered women shelters, children’s hospitals, and animal shelters…the list goes on and on! These are just a few places that are really making a difference in the world around us, but they need our help. These places often have information on their websites about how to volunteer.

5. Serving big starts small!

Plant some flower beds outside of your church. Host a “Moms and Dads Night Out” with a free babysitting service for parents with young children. Organize a “cleaning ministry” to help keep the church neat and tidy.

Hebrews 13:16 says, “Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” It is our hope that this generation will learn the importance of serving others. What better way to teach about the love of Christ than by doing what He did best? Serving!