Being a good citizen in your community has value, not only for you but for the people you interact with along the way. Consider the questions below to determine whether you’re a good neighbor and what you can do to become a contributing citizen where you live.
1. What do you do to improve your community? Do you contribute in some way to the lives of others? Set a goal to positively impact the life of one person. Whenever you hit that goal, renew it. Making a positive difference will soon become a wondrous part of your daily life.
2. Do you participate in community events or charity drives? Taking part in the special celebrations of your community is an excellent way to be a good citizen.
3. Do you help others learn about your locale? When you’re out and about, step in to help others, answer a question about the community, or recommend a business that does a fine job at serving its customers. Take part in random conversations at the grocery store and offer tips or guidance about the community.
4. What do you know about your community? Make it a point to try to learn everything there is to learn about the place where you live. Know the hidden restaurants that serve homemade soups or the shoe repair shop that will replace your heels inexpensively.
5. How do you stay informed about what’s going on in your city? Subscribing to the local newspaper will keep you abreast of events throughout the city.
- If you’re a business owner, join your local Chamber of Commerce to stay in touch.
- Stop in to your neighborhood coffee shop on Saturday mornings to find out the latest buzz.
6. How do you feel about your local authorities — police, fire department, and school personnel? When you show respect for the members of your community who take care of its citizens, you set a great example.
- In supporting your local authorities, you’ll make helpful contacts and be a better neighbor should an emergency situation arise.
7. How well do you obey the laws? You can make your community safer and stronger by following the laws and being a role model for other citizens, young and old alike.
8. What does a “good neighbor” do? Are you a good neighbor? If you’re willing to help those who live close to you and frequently offer a helping hand, you’re probably a great neighbor.
- Take part in your neighborhood watch program.
- Sweep off the porch of an elderly neighbor.
- Bring fresh flowers and a home-cooked meal with you to visit a shut-in.
9. What types of volunteer work do you do? Put your skills to good use. Your community offers many opportunities for you to step up and offer assistance.
- Spend 2 hours a week at a nursing home delivering reading material to the residents.
- Join a clean-up project to keep a local highway or neighborhood litter-free.
- Help out at the library.
- Offer to answer phones or do bulk mailings for a social services agency.
10. Do you vote? Let your voice be heard! Vote in every election.
Endeavor to be a contributing member in your community. Others will benefit greatly. Plus, getting involved will open doors for you, too, as it enriches your life.
