6 Ways to Be Local in 2020
We’re on a mission to help folks like you support local businesses and organizations in the community in which you live. So as you’re making plans for 2020 here’s a few ways you can pour back into your home.
Shop Local
Oftentimes, Shop local means only choosing to shop at stores owned by local citizens. That might be small gift shops and boutiques but this really goes far beyond that. Shopping local is supporting any business in your town with your time and money. From retailers to insurance to plumbers and gas stations. Even if a business is owned by a national corporation, money (anywhere from 25-85%) stays in your community whether it’s tax dollars or paychecks to employees.
Eat Local
The same concept applies to eating local. Even more so, when you order food from local restaurants that orders their ingredients from local farmers you’re supporting a lasting and impactful economic ecosystem. Not to mention, food harvested in your hometown doesn’t have to travel as far as others, which is great for our environment!
Give Local
Most communities cannot function without the support and organization of local non-profits. This year, we hope you can resolve to be more charitable and (coming soon!) our app is going to make that easier!
When you give your time and money to local organizations, you’re empowering lots of opportunities that may otherwise never happen. Most of us are familiar with big name non-profits that are working hard to tackle some of our world’s biggest problems, but what you may not know is how many small ones are out there looking for your help. Here’s a short list of some to consider:
Local homeless shelters or soup kitchens
Recycling and beautification efforts
Youth, adult and parenting Mentorship programs
Ministries
Cycling, running, boxing and sporting clubs
Healthcare foundations
College scholarships
and so much more!
Take some time this season and seek out an organization you can get behind.
Vote Local
Take some time this year to be more civic minded in the county and/or city you live in. Oftentimes, your local representatives live in your neighborhood and would love nothing more than to have a cup of coffee with you! Being involved, whether a little bit or a lot with your local politics is a really great way to become more aware of how your leaders are serving you. Attend a city council meeting or ask for more info about sitting on a local committee to provide your expertise. Chances are, your city or county is looking for folks just like you to pitch in.
Explore Local
It’s so easy to default to your favorite restaurant or shop when you need a fix. It’s the perfect time of year to try new things! Ask some other local for their favorite bite to eat or place to shop and go straight there. No hesitations! Trying new things is an easy way you can keep your community growing and thriving. Those little unknown shops are counting on you to discover them. And if you’re into it, leave em a great review on places like Google and Yelp. That helps them continue to grow.
Cheer Local
Perhaps the most important thing you can do for your community is to be its number one fan. We truly believe in “loving where you live.” It’s a lifestyle of loving on and spreading love to everyone inside and outside of your community. Write positive reviews on review sites, post pics on instagram about your experiences, spread the word to anyone that will listen! We’re empowering you right now to be your town’s tour guide and unofficial mayor. Carry those keys to the city with pride–even if all they really can do is unlock your Honda.