6 Unusual Ways To Give Back & Get Involved

Giving back to your community is not only rewarding but also helps create a positive impact.

While there are many traditional ways to give back—donating to charities, volunteering at shelters, or participating in food drives—there are also unique and creative approaches that can make a real impact. If you're looking to try something a bit different, here are some unusual and fun ways to give back to the Houston community.

**This is specific to Houston and surrounding areas, but feel free to try any of these in your area.

#1 - Host a Themed Event to Give Back To The Community💚

Instead of a standard charity event, why not organize a "Giving Back" pop-up event? This could take place in a local park, an empty lot, or even on a bustling street. The idea is simple: you and others who participate will select an item or type of items to give away and commit to collecting the items needed. Once you have a good amount, find a place where you won't be considered trespassing, create a sign, and pass out those items.

For example, let's say you need to get rid of some clothes that are still in good condition. Connect with family and friends who may want to do the same, gather your clothes together, and find a local area to donate them. Bonus if you can partner with a business that wouldn't mind donating other items to give away. Be sure to market online and by word of mouth for people to donate and volunteer.

If you'd like to volunteer first to get your own idea, check out a non-profit such as EveryDay Love on IG

#2 -Give Your Time to Unseen Volunteers👚

Most people think of volunteering at large, visible organizations like food banks or hospitals. While those are great and could always use volunteers, why not join the many people in your area who quietly work behind the scenes to help those in need? Consider sharing your time helping at local thrift stores, helping to organize neighborhood cleanups, or volunteering a few hours at your local library.

There's a thrift store I had the opportunity to volunteer at called Magnificat Houses Anawim Thrift Shop, and their story made me want to sign up to work there full time. They are a thrift store started by Magnificat Houses that proves to be an alternative to the streets by sheltering, clothing, feeding, and providing mental health support and spiritual guidance to men and women of all mental abilities since 1968. The store itself is run by its residents, and it was beautiful to hear their stories of overcoming addiction and surviving whatever struggle they faced. Read more about their store and consider volunteering here.

"Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart." – Elizabeth Andrew

Find a community space to teach a skill!

Tip #3 - Teach a Skill For Free!🛠️

You, yes YOU, have something that you do well enough to teach someone else- why not donate a little time and spread your knowledge? You don’t need to be a professional teacher to offer valuable knowledge. There are many underserved populations, including immigrants, low-income families, and those experiencing homelessness, that could benefit from your skill(s). 

Offering free classes or workshops on skills such as resume building, financial literacy, cooking, or fashion/styling/ basic makeup application can provide individuals with tools to help them improve their lives. You could hold these workshops in community centers, libraries, or even virtually. Most libraries will allow you to use their space for free as long as you aren't selling anything. Marketing online and word of mouth will be important here as wel,l but I guarantee there is a population who would benefit from your expertise.

Tip #4 - Start a Book Swap or Little Free Library📗

I'll never forget the joy I had seeing a Little free library in my neighborhood as a grown adult. Reading is such a great way to empower individuals, and if you think about it, not everyone has access to books. Little Free Libraries are small, often hand-built structures where people can leave a book and take one in return. They’re typically free-standing on street corners, outside local cafes, or near community centers. You can start a Little Free Library in your neighborhood or create a larger "book swap" event, inviting others to donate books they no longer need. The key is to make it accessible and welcoming, fostering a love of reading and learning across the community. Watch this video on how to build one here.

Tip #5 - Offer Free Childcare for Busy Parents👶🏽

In a city such as Houston, parents frequently balance work, family, and personal commitments with little free time. Providing free or affordable childcare can have a significant impact. Consider organizing a "free babysitting day" or offering your assistance to nearby parents who lack family support. Collaborating with a local community center or church can lend more structure to the initiative, giving parents peace of mind while their children are safe and entertained. The satisfaction of aiding a family in need while supporting parents is priceless.

Just Do Something!

By thinking creatively and exploring unique ways to contribute, we can significantly impact the lives of those around us. Whether it's initiating a community fridge, teaching a new skill, or organizing a clothing swap, every action—large or small—can create a ripple effect that strengthens and connects Houston. So, the next time you're considering ways to give back, try one of these unconventional ideas and watch how it transforms your community.

What other unconventional methods do you enjoy using to give back? Leave a comment!