09 2 / 2012
#17: Serve Someone
Des Moines is a great place to live; it’s not so big that you get lost in the shuffle and it’s not so small you know everyone mentioned in the Des Moines Register. This presents an ideal setting in which to serve and make a noticed impact on our community. And by focusing on an area you’re passionate about, you’ll find rewards to be great than expected. You’ll also find that when we get involved, relationships will quickly be built and neighborhoods strengthened.
As the co-founder of a young non-profit organization, I learned quickly that there are a lot of people doing good around here. If you have a passion about something…anything, you can find a non-profit, a small group of people or network you can link up with. And, if you can’t find an opportunity you are interested in, you can start your own.
Serving isn’t just about doing something good so you can check it off your list. It’s about lending your resources and talent to the very community in which you live, work and play. Service is a great way to form relationships and gather up community pride.
Make serving contagious - a way of life. When you see or hear of good around us, celebrate it. This year, encourage yourself to take the leap and get involved in something to better society right here in Des Moines. We will all thank you for it!
The next move is yours.
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Nick Mahlstadt is co-founder of The Move Project, created to do social good in Des Moines and beyond. Follow @Nickmahlstadt and @themoveproject
