Building Blocks for 2024 - Part VI: Giving Back

Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth!
Muhammad Ali

by Skip Cohen

​February is about to close, giving you only a month to build a stronger foundation for the new year. And with Easter coming early this year, you really have even less time.

This is the sixth installment in this year's building block series. It's also the easiest for you to accomplish: Community Involvement. You're looking for the community to be good to you, so you better make damn sure you're good to your community!

From local nonprofits to national programs, it doesn't matter if they're photo-centric or not. You're looking for things you can do to help, with or without a camera in your hands. Here's one that's national, involves your photographic skills, and carries with it a huge client responsibility. But it's an even bigger payback when it comes to tugging on your heartstrings - Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep.

I'm a big fan of the support they provide to families when they need help the most. And while some of you may think it's too gut-wrenching or morbid to photograph a dying child, read this post. I shared it many years ago, but there's no expiration date on making a difference in people's lives. It's still one of my favorite posts on the topic.

"I've never heard a thank you that left me so sad, and yet so proud.
I walked out knowing that the images I had taken weren't just pictures -
they were someone's memories. They mattered."
Cyd Lapour, NILMDTS Volunteer

My point is about giving back - at any level. NILMDTS is a wonderful organization, but there's no such thing as an effort too small. From teaching a community class on how to get better photography to working with the local high school on a better yearbook, there's something or someone in your community who needs help. Even easier, being involved in your community in some way doesn't have to involve photography; it just takes a little effort and your time. 

Use social media to raise awareness with posts about the need for volunteers and support for various community groups. Share a community calendar about upcoming nonprofit events. Attend various fund-raisers, capture images and then share them in social media.  Be a leader in giving back!

I'm so surprised by the number of people who do so little and think that a donation to a particular charity once a year is enough. When put on the spot, they'll respond with something about how they're still looking for the right charity. You're not buying a car, just getting involved in helping people!

Remember, people like buying products and services from companies they perceive as giving back to the community. You're looking for the community to be good to you - so you better make sure you're being good to your community!