Sometimes I feel as though people are inherently selfish beings. Whether it’s in the workforce or in personal lives, the general motivation for achieving goals or doing something is driven by a selfish reason and justified by the simple matter of “but I don’t have any money.”

The thing is, you do not have to be rich in order to give back to your local communities. Not all charity is about donating money. Whether you do donate money, supplies or time, it will be beneficial to not only the recipient but for you as well.

There are not enough words in the world to describe just how significant giving back can be. Even the simplest things often thought of as “no big deal” are actually of importance. Volunteering can really strengthen a community and bring all sorts of people together. I grew up in a very privileged household and my dad never let me forget the importance of giving back and paying it forward because he was not quite as lucky growing up. If you are motivated by things that will directly benefit yourself (which isn’t really a bad thing), here are three great reasons to give back to your community:

• Resume Builder: A big reason to volunteer is that it’s a great way to gain work experience. Especially if you volunteer within your direct field of interest. For example, volunteering to help at a school or elementary school if you’re planning to be an educator in the future will make a world of difference.
• Set an Example: Humans follow by example. If you decide to volunteer or be kind to people, others will follow. Set an example for your kids, never let them forget that helping people (or dogs) less fortunate than they are will help to spread joy.
• “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead. Action matters.

You never really know what someone else is going through until you have stepped into their shoes. Whether they have a child in the hospital or they were just laid off from a company that went bankrupt or having domestic violence happening behind closed doors, every single person’s situation is different; receiving kindness has never hurt anyone and is pretty universal. If you are not sure how to give back to your community or other organizations that you care about, here are some ideas:

• Join a local food drive or start one on your own (check out local food banks to help organize this)
• Sponsor a walk-a-thon or a running event that can help raise funds
• Visit your local senior center (many residents are desperate for conversation and you can make connections with people aside from those that work at the center)
• Organize a yard sale (collect donated items from people and sell them at a big yard sale where all proceeds go toward charity)
• Volunteer at a hospital

Keep in mind that these are just a few suggestions. What you give out to the world you’ll receive back ten-fold. Go out and give back!