5 Practical Ways to Give Back on a Budget

Become a virtual tutor

More and more kids are getting their schooling online nowadays, so why not reach out to your local school district or homeschooling cooperative and see how you could pitch in to help? Whatever your expertise, odds are that there’s someone out there who wants to learn what you have to offer.

Get crafty

With many states issuing guidance to wear masks in public, crafting some easy DIY face masks to donate can be an inexpensive way to help the wider community. If sewing isn’t your mug of coffee or cup of tea, the CDC even offers a no-sew tutorial you can use.

Blow a horn

If you’re musically inclined, you can put those gifts to use and celebrate the lives of our country’s veterans at the same time. Non-profit organization Bugles Across America is on a mission to provide full Military Funeral Honors to qualified veterans who have passed away by encouraging volunteer buglers to play “Taps” at the service. This somber honor can be a great way to show gratitude to our nation’s finest.

Read a book

If you can read out loud, you can help make a difference in the lives of blind people in your community and across the nation. The Society for the Blind provides opportunities to read journals, newspapers and magazines to people who are blind, have low vision or cannot read conventional print. 

Make history

Better yet, transcribe history! The Smithsonian is looking for remote volunteers who can take digital versions of historical documents and make them more accessible. You’ll partner with other “volunpeers” on projects that will bring our American history to life. The only requirements are a computer, an Internet connection and the ability to read handwriting from more than a century ago! 

Most of these ideas can be done from the comfort and safety of your own home, and there are plenty more remote opportunities that are only an Internet search away. You can help make a difference right now, where you are, no matter how much money is in your generosity budget. All it takes is some creativity and a willing heart!