If you’re from West Michigan, you know the benefits of living in the area. West Michigan provides hundreds of freshwater lakes, parks with trails, beautiful sunsets, and so much more. With all that West Michigan provides, it’s only right we give back. Here are some ways you can give back to West Michigan. 

Volunteering 

Several organizations in West Michigan are always seeking extra help. The fun part about volunteering is you can give a hand somewhere you truly care for. For example, pet lovers often volunteer at their local animal shelter. At the Kent County Animal Shelter, volunteers tend to animals by walking, feeding treats, and throwing tennis balls in their enclosed playground.  

It’s important to not only find an organization that you’re passionate about but an organization that needs assistance. The Volunteer Center at Heart of West Michigan United Way has an online portal that helps connect individuals, students, families, and employers with organizations and programs that match their talents and interests. If you’re looking to volunteer, but don’t know where to start, they can help. 

Additionally, on our website, you can find hundreds of organizations that need your help! 

Donating 

Donations can be an alternative to volunteering, with benefits. They’re less timely and don’t have to be a financial contribution.

Whether it is clothes, furniture, or miscellaneous items lying around your home, we all have something that we have too much of. It’s understandable to sell your hoarded items in a garage sale or the Facebook Marketplace but consider donating to your local Salvation Army or Goodwill.  

Also, if you’re not afraid of needles, you can donate your blood or plasma. Last month, Fox 17 reported that West Michigan Blood banks are running on a one-day supply of blood. One popular blood bank in West Michigan is Versiti.You can also visit American Red Cross to find where you can donate today. You might even get lucky enough to get a cookie in return!  

If you wish to make a financial contribution, visit GreatNonProfits to find a list of all of the charities and non-profit organizations in West Michigan.  

Go Green  

 To be clear, as a loyal Michigan fan, “go green” is not in support of MSU athletics (kidding), but rather encouraging the practice of environmentally friendly activities. With all of the fresh water in Michigan, we know the value of our Great Lakes, they make up 20% of the world’s fresh surface water. However, our freshwater system is threatened by several factors including water pollution, air pollution, water waste, and the amount of trash ending up in the lakes.  

For starters, saving water is not only beneficial for your water bill, but also the environment. Be sure to turn off the water while you’re brushing your teeth or washing your hands, consider taking shorter showers, and ensure none of your water pipes are leaking.  

It’s also important to be mindful of where your trash is going. Recycling is vital to our goal of a green environment. Several recycling services in West Michigan will pick up your recyclables after they’ve been bagged.  

Lastly, you can do your part by picking up a piece of trash you see on the ground and throwing it in the trash, even if it’s not your trash. You can also pick up some volunteer hours by participating in a trash pickup day at a local park or beach.  

Did you know that you can return bottles for 10 cents each in Michigan? It may not seem like a lot, but I can assure you they add up quickly!  

For more volunteer opportunities and to learn how you can go green in West Michigan, visit West Michigan Environmental Council.