Volunteering During the Covid-19 Pandemic

One of the silver linings in our current state of the nation is the number of people who want to help. Anytime disaster strikes, droves of people begin asking, "What can I do?" It is our normal reaction to gather; whether it be on our capitol steps, a park, someone's home, or a restaurant. We want to brainstorm and think things through and come up with effective ideas to respond to a crisis. But in this particular time, the one thing we so urgently feel called to do is the one thing we absolutely cannot do; we simply cannot be together.

 

So what can you do to volunteer in a time where standing shoulder-to-shoulder is almost the worst possible decision you could make? We wanted to give you five actual things you can do right now to help your families, your neighbors, your local non-profits, and your community.

 

 

We know so many people want to buy food, assemble lunch bags, prep meals for people in need, and hit the road. There is no better feeling than putting your well-intentioned idea into motion. But unless you have a certified kitchen (and if you don't know what that is, you don't have one), please DO NOT do this. One of the things we've learned is that the Coronavirus lives on surfaces anywhere from hours to days, so your well-intentioned plan could be infecting others. Instead, donate to your local food bank or other another food gathering/distributing site. We have a resource page full of food pantries and other basic needs pantries right here. Take a moment to scroll the list. Then, donate food or money. Maybe even pick up the phone to call and ask, "What can I do to help?"

 

 

People who are currently isolated would probably love to hear a friendly voice or see a friendly face. Maybe grandma doesn't know how to video chat--now is the time to teach her! Voice and face contact is so much more personal than a text or email. So pick up your phone or screen and reach out to someone. One of the very best things you can do is lend an ear. Let someone talk to you. Listen to them without waiting to speak. Just hear their words and let them share their feelings and thoughts during what so many people feel is a very frightening time.

 

 

How amazing is it that so many people want to crowdsource and fundraise during times like this? Well, we hate to be the party poopers here, but this just is not a good idea and here's why: This is the least efficient and most trouble-ridden method of helping. Crowdfunding platforms on social media charge fees in addition to credit card processing fees charged by the card companies. Crowdfunding isn't charitable and is not deductible by the IRS, although many think it is. And the person who owns the crowdfunding site is legally responsible for the distribution of the funds and giving out money, which may seem easy, but it is not. Who's bank account is paying out the money? Who gets money and how much? What if the money isn't enough? What if the money is misused? Instead, partner up with organizations like United Way of Treasure Valley, who together with the Idaho Nonprofit Center and Idaho Community Foundation have established the Covid-19 Response Fund for Idaho. Your local nonprofits are carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders right now and are the best way to get the people the resources they need. Supporting your nonprofits during the Covid-19 pandemic is a no-brainer and a total win.

 

 

We know that people's mental health is taking an unimaginable toll right now. We also know that rates of domestic abuse are escalating at this time. There is a national call line called the Crisis Text Line who needs people to volunteer and will provide free virtual training. You must be willing to fulfill your 200-hour commitment and overnight work may be required.

 

 

The Red Cross is facing a massive blood shortage as a result of donor cancellations during the Covid-19 Pandemic. The Red Cross and other blood collection agencies have put precautions in place so you can safely donate blood.