Category: Cooperative Extension
Start your New Year’s Mental Wellness off strong in your own backyard
January 02, 2025 Written by Kim Silva, 4-H Extension Agent, ROTA
January is Mental Wellness Month
Did you ever do a favor for someone and feel better inside? Helping out and being kind in your own neighborhood can make a big difference. By volunteering and supporting those around you, you create a friendlier, safer, and happier place to live. Plus, it’s a great way to feel good and connect with others. When you lend a hand, not only do you improve your surroundings, but also build strong relationships with the people who live near you.
Kindness also goes a long way in creating a positive neighborhood. A smile, a friendly wave, or helping a neighbor carry groceries can brighten someone’s day. Simple acts such as mowing a neighbor’s lawn or shoveling snow from their driveway show you care and make your neighborhood more connected.
Ideas to help within your community
Pick up litter on your block.
Cook a meal for someone who is having a hard time.
Help a neighbor with a chore such as yard work, shoveling, or mowing
Offer to babysit or walk a pet.
Check on the elderly or offer companionship for those who don’t often see visitors.
Welcome new neighbors with a gift or card or a homemade treat.
Start a book-sharing box for the community.
Plan a neighborhood cookout, potluck or holiday event.
Little actions add up to big changes—your kindness makes a difference! And best of all, you feel better too!