Helpful Resources

Be a Leader in Your Community:
How to Make an Impact Where It Counts 

by Daniel Sherwin*

No matter how much time you spend online with your fellow supporters, you can always do more in your community. One of the most valuable tools the internet has given the ordinary citizen is social media. It allows people to organize and educate their friends on issues that are important. But if you really want change, what good is it if it doesn’t manifest in real life?

Social Justice

Perhaps the easiest way to get involved is by protecting the LGBTQ community. When North Carolina passed a bill requiring transgender individuals to use bathrooms corresponding with their biological birth sex, there was an immediate backlash from organizations that fought for the rights of all people regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. An excellent place to start in Vermont is working with the Pride Center of Vermont, which focuses on youth, education, and wellness.

Voter Registration

Get out and help register people to vote. No matter what political party they follow, there’s nothing more important to fulfilling your civic duty and honoring your forefathers than voting. Whether you do this at your local library or post office or visit colleges and high schools to get the word out, it’s important to help people find their voice in government.

Neighborhood Safety

When your community is under attack, it brings people together as nothing else can. For example, after the Orlando shooting, people came together to help those affected by the tragedy create a more inclusive community. Just imagine what your town could do if there were an active hate group in the area. If you want to make a change, work to promote love and acceptance.

Boost Community Awareness in Vermont

Several options are available to get involved and encourage others to support local causes. Whether it’s protecting a minority group or promoting neighborhood safety, you can make a difference. To learn more ways to help your community, contact Goodwill Industries of the Berkshires and Southern Vermont, Inc.

For Immigrants

Fixing Your Finances

After settling in America, you want also to check out ways to address your finances. There are many ways immigrants can contribute to strengthening the American economy. This includes starting a business, which will, in turn, employ Americans and contribute to taxes. The National Venture Capital Association shows that “immigrants have started more than half of America’s startup companies valued at $1 billion or more.” You can be a part of this group of successful immigrants, and this will help you assist your family back home.

You can use programs like MASSCAP, designed to assist low-income families and disadvantaged people with food and education, to establish yourself before you attain financial stability. These programs are also well-equipped to help seniors in need.

Services from Goodwill:

Immigrating into a new society takes a bit of learning to acquire the skills required to function in that society. One of the solutions would be first to learn about the culture and language. Also, you need to manage your finances by starting a business or getting a job.

Goodwill Industries of the Berkshires and Southern Vermont helps community members with barriers to employment attain independence and self-sufficiency, gain confidence, and enhance their quality of life, through vocational education, work training, and other support services. Connect with us today for more information! (413) 442-0061 x14