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Sometimes an idea about a story just pops into my head. This week, I was at a 9/11 Memorial in my hometown. It became very clear to me that we ALL need to find a way to give back. Not just on holidays or when someone asks you to. A true Gentleman will look for ways to contribute to their community and their country. Regardless, if it’s financial or your time, giving back not only helps others, but it also feels pretty good as well.
Giving back can come in a multitude of ways. Of course, if you can find a cause that you are passionate about, it will be much easier and more fulfilling. Choosing that path, and there can be more than one, is a personal choice that needs to be taken seriously. There is nothing worse than committing to something and not giving it your all. Sound familiar?
Donating to a local charity. The quote “Charity begins at home” was given to us by author, Sir Thomas Browne in 1642. This obviously has been around a while, and it still holds true. Taking care of those in need in YOUR neighborhood quite possibly can make a bigger impact than anything else you can do. Investigate legitimate charities nearby and speak to those in charge. Remembering that some may not be as well-known as others.
Volunteer at a Food Bank or a Shelter. Homelessness and the economy have put more folks in need than probably any other time in my lifetime. Helping those in need by just donating your time can help dozens of folks in your community. I am aware of several here in the Lake Norman area that I assure you, they will welcome you with open arms. Check out Angels and Sparrows, Ada Jenkins and Hope House just to name a few.
Run for your HOA. I know I know, no one loves the HOA, but if not you WHO? If you have a desire to keep your neighborhood in order, throw your hat in the ring. Yes, it can be challenging at times (I was my HOA President for many years), but if you truly want to make things better, why not you? I can tell you from personal experience, it will not be hard to be part of that team. You will learn a tremendous amount as well.
Run for local office. Again, I’ve got some experience here. It certainly is not for the money, regardless of what some folks may say. Being part of the decision-making process in your Town or County can be very rewarding. In my opinion, local leaders will have more of an impact on you directly than some National politicians. It’s a challenging process to run and hopefully win but you literally have nothing to lose. I would argue that anyone with common sense and a desire to serve, can absolutely run. I had no previous experience and was able to win my first time out. Knowing I left a positive mark on the town I love is something I will always treasure.
Start a cause of your own. Not everyone finds the right charity for them. Why not start one that addresses a need you feel strongly about? I am proud of the Lake Norman Lighted Christmas Boat Parade that we started 6 years ago and partnered with Little Smiles. Nothing like it had ever been done on the Lake before that everyone could participate in. With a few phone calls to the right people, we have created one of the most anticipated events on the lake around the holidays. What are you passionate about and can you get a few friends to help? Nothing is out of the question if it comes from a good place.
Choose a National Charity that makes a bigger impact. If you watch any amount of television, it won’t take long before you see a commercial for one of the many well known charities. Tunnel to Towers, ASPCA, St. Jude’s, the list goes on and on. These larger causes certainly make a bigger impact and most have a way to pay per month so it’s easier to give. There’s too many to list and I encourage you to do your research here as well. How much of your donation goes to the cause and how much to the administration? A quick search found a site to help you with that. www.charitywatch.org.
Where do I start?
As I shared in the beginning, giving back is a personal decision. Choosing any one or more of these is something you need to think through. Being an impact on your community in a positive way is something we all should strive for. Nothing ever gets done without people’s time or money. It’s really that simple. If you have one, or both of these things, dig deep in your heart and do what you can to help. As you’ve heard me say before, get your brotherhood involved, do it as a group! Just think, if we all gave b
Take care of yourselves and your brotherhood!
Colin Furcht- BRO Beard Products CEO
Colin has been a long time Lake Norman resident and has been very active in the community. From Commissioner to founding the Lake Norman Lighted Christmas Boat Parade to now a featured Author and small business owner! His desire is to bring men together and encourage them to reach out. He has always said, ‘look out for yourselves and each other.’ All men need a Brotherhood. www.brobeardproducts.shop
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