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It's easy to get involved in making a positive impact on your community. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Go through your closets and identify five items you could donate to someone in need.
• Like to knit or sew? As winter rolls around there's always a need for extra hats, scarves and gloves.
• Contact the local school system to find out about community mentoring or tutoring programs for kids.
• Have your kids clean out the family's coat pockets and sofa cushions — chances are they'll come up with at least a few dollars to donate to a good cause.
• Call your local United Way or other community organization for a list of non-profit groups that might need assistance.
• Skip the double latte for a week and you'll save enough to make a difference for someone living on the street.
• Love to garden? Check with your neighborhood park system or zoo — they just might need your help to keep the grounds looking great.

• Check your local newspaper or community website to learn about local volunteer organizations.
• Evaluate your schedule to determine what time is available for volunteerism.
• Consider the skills you have to offer, and how they might be best used in your community.
• Think about the causes or issues that are most important to you — you're most likely to be energized if you are volunteering for something you believe in.
• Get your family involved! Volunteering is a great way to spend a weekend afternoon together as a family.
• Ask around — you might just find that your friends and neighbors are already involved in organizations that need a hand.