I've been so amazed by the energy and enthusiasm for this election. Volutneering for the Obama campaign, it was so awesome to see people of all ages, races, and backgrounds working together for change. I was thinking about how it was the first time in a while that I had really gotten involved in something important. (I did some volunteering back in 2007 while I was unemployed, but since getting a job, I stopped.) I'd really hate to see this positive energy dissipate into apathy, or worse, more division and hatred.
So today, I submitted my contact information to volunteer for the humane society and as a tutor for a literacy program. I also want to get involved in advocacy on behalf of mass transit (a cause I dearly believe in), but signing up for two things in one day is enough. In the spring, I'm going to look into participating in a CSA because it's good for the environment and the local agricultural community.
The biggest thing that I've learned from this campaign is that WE have to get involved if we want change. Anybody else planning to do something new to contribute to their communities? Are you encouraging other people to do the same?
Re: Putting all this political energy into action
Yeah, I need to get back to volunteering with my animal rescue group. I didnt do much over the summer so I really need to start up again. I love the work, but it has just seemed like an insane summer.
I did some work for a local election as well, but since that is over now, I need to get back to animal rescue.
I already volunteer with PFLAG and Planned Parenthood. ?I've thought about adding some other small things since those don't take up too much time, but I'm going to wait until I begin school and see what my schedule is like.
I did walk by a kid being tutored in the library last week and felt inspired to do something like that, but, really, I don't want to commit to something longterm like that right now.?