SEATTLE — Global poverty is an extreme issue. It affects everyone from the extremely poor to the wealthy and everyone in between. While the majority may not be able to start a foundation or donate thousands to a charity, there are still several ways make meaningful contributions to the cause to end global poverty today. Here are five ways to end global poverty today.
- Talk about it
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social media sites enable the masses to communicate virtually anytime, anywhere. Communicating global poverty issues can be one way to inform, educate and mobilize those who may not be aware of how they can help end global poverty or bring awareness to issues and communicate how it affects the global community. So instead of posting that cute cat video, maybe make global poverty awareness a part of the daily feed. - Contact your local congressional leader
Contacting your local representative directly may be one of the best avenues to end global poverty today. Each representative has available contact information to call or email. Each time an issue is addressed it is logged, and the more attention an issue gets the more likely a congressional leader will address the issue. - Donate
There are several ways in which one can donate to end global poverty, and monetary gifts do not necessarily have to be one. While donating to an organization can certainly help support projects, other things can be given such as time, energy, foodstuffs, clothing, toys and books. Most local communities are equipped with a donation center like Goodwill or Planet Aid. These items are distributed locally and/or internationally, making a huge impact in ending global poverty. - Volunteer
Volunteering for a community project locally or abroad can alleviate some of the stresses of poverty locally and globally. Some major cities in the United States have set up action programs that work through a variety of causes from farming to entrepreneurship. - Vote
It may seem like a no-brainer, but voting directly affects global poverty issues, especially when it comes to local and state representatives. As mentioned, speaking with a representative directly is a major way in which things get done. Take some time to be involved in local politics just as much as larger elections and vote.
Global poverty will not be alleviated overnight or without tremendous effort. But that doesn’t mean that there are no opportunities for ordinary folks to contribute on a day-to-day basis. By maximizing any and all opportunities to act on issues of poverty, everyone can bring the dream of a world of equal opportunity for all into reality.
– Casey Hess
Photo: Flickr