A New Year's Resolution for the Greater Good

As we look ahead to next year, many of us challenge ourselves with New Year’s resolutions. Usually these resolutions are things we want to change about ourselves—things like losing weight, saving more money, kicking a bad habit, etc. But over the past few years, we have seen a new trend with New Year’s resolutions. Instead of giving things up or trying to change ourselves, people are setting resolutions with the goal of helping others. These resolutions are easier to keep, and research shows that when people keep their resolutions they are happier and more positive.

To assist you in planning a resolution that can help others, we are highlighting a few Acuity employees and how they give back to their communities.

Volunteer for a Charity – Ryan B.

Most communities have a wide array of charitable organizations that serve different groups of people. Ryan B. works with the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin to organize an annual silent auction and dinner. Ryan helps plan the details of the event and also works with more than 130 local businesses to obtain donations for the silent auction. This year’s fundraiser grossed over $20,500. The best part of the night for Ryan is hearing the stories of local families and how their lives have been affected by Children’s Hospital. Watching the children enjoy the entertainment is something that keeps bringing him back, year after year.

Help Coach a Local Sports Team – Tim M., Matt H., & Justin B.

Tim M. and Matt H. coached a freshman football team this year. Their role was to set the groundwork, in terms of developing skills and understanding the formations of the playbook, to allow the kids to become successful at the varsity level. Their favorite part of coaching is seeing the gains that were made by the athletes from the beginning of the year to the end. Justin B. coached a varsity girls basketball team. His passion lies in overseeing all the teams from elementary school to high school and getting to watch the kids grow from third graders who can barely dribble to young adults who make a difference in their school and community. Coaching is a great way to get involved in a child’s life and become a role model.

myTEAM TRIUMPH – Mike S. & Miriam S.

Mike S. and Miriam S. have both been involved with myTEAM TRIUMPH for a number of years. The organization pairs able-bodied runners— angels—with individuals who have a disability—captains. The angels utilize specialized racing equipment to guide their captain in a road race or triathlon. Mike and Miriam love being involved because it provides food for their souls. Being able to lead by example and share the race with someone who would otherwise not be able to participate makes the event that much more rewarding.

Volunteer as a Big Brother or Big Sister – Deidre R.

Big Brothers and Big Sisters is a program that helps children in local communities by pairing them with a mentor. Deidre R. has been paired with Ava for over five years now and has enjoyed every minute of it. She spends time with her as a lunch buddy once a week. She also meets with Ava to help her with homework, play games, and just talk about life. Deidre’s favorite part has been getting to see firsthand the young lady Ava has blossomed into. If you like working with children, becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister is a great way to get involved in your community.  

Pay it Forward – Amanda B.

The act of paying it forward is something that has become more commonplace in our society. Paying for the person behind you at Starbucks or leaving a gift card on a car’s windshield in a parking lot are a couple common examples. Amanda B. has taken this a step further. Over the last few years, she has started to teach her children to be kind and bring joy to others by regularly performing these small acts of kindness. Her favorite part is seeing the excitement on her kids’ faces when they pay it forward.

Getting involved in your community isn’t the only way to help others—and there are tons of other options for your resolution. If your goal is to get in shape, make an effort to participate in run/walks that support local charities. Donate items if you want to downsize or simply your life. Or set aside more time to spend with your family and loved ones. Regardless of the New Year’s resolution you settle on, be sure it is something that can make you happier. And when you come up with your resolution, share it in the comments section!