8 easy acts of kindness you can do today
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Illustration: Natalie Peeples/Axios
It might not seem easy to counteract the weight of the recent news cycle, but there are always ways to improve the world around us.
Why it matters: Even small acts of kindness make a much bigger difference than it might seem.
Zoom in: At a recent book club meeting, a friend shared how exhausted they were by the headlines, and how they were looking for something — anything — to put some positive energy into instead.
- From increased illness to school shootings and assassinations, it's hard to imagine not feeling overwhelmed, it's easy to see how anyone could feel heavy.
- Frankly, it's hard to imagine not feeling overwhelmed.
That sat with me for several days, and I ended up spending some time thinking about where that energy could go to better use.
Between the lines: The science backs me up.
- As Axios' Erica Pandey has reported, studies show that small acts of kindness have outsized impacts on the people who receive them.
Here are 8 ways to easily make an impact right in your neighborhood.
🚮 Go on clean-up duty. Next time you take a walk, bring a small trash bag to gather and properly dispose of litter.
☎️ Phone a friend. Is there a relative or loved one you haven't caught up with lately? Now's the time.
🗳️ Cast your vote. Is the political world a bit overwhelming? Good news: New Orleans has a big election coming up, so do your homework to find a candidate you can believe in.
- The outcomes from local elections often have more impact on our daily lives than the national ones, so volunteer time or make a donation — but definitely cast your vote.
☕️ Buy a stranger coffee. It's as simple as offering to pay for the person behind you in line.
🍼 Help a parent. Call a parent — whether they're new to the game or have been at it awhile — and offer to babysit, drop off dinner or just listen to them vent for a bit.
- Another option? Ask an elderly or disabled friend or neighbor if you can run an errand for them.
🐾 Pet some dogs and cats. There are tons of ways to volunteer with local animal shelters, whether you're just interested in sharing some cuddles or committing to fostering a pet for the long-term.
- Animal Rescue New Orleans welcomes volunteers every day of the year, with advance approval.
- Other places to volunteer include the SPCA in Jefferson Parish and New Orleans and shelter alternatives like Zeus' Place and Take Paws.
🥪 Feed a neighbor. Grab some extra canned goods or package up those leftovers the next time you make a big batch of red beans, and use them to fill out a neighborhood pantry or fridge.
- The Second Harvest Food Bank is always looking for volunteers, too.
🩸 Give blood. The Blood Center has locations across Southeast Louisiana.