Every article we read in the New Year always tends to be about the same set of things. Ways to improve yourself, things to cut out, things to start doing, ways to change yourself – the same kind of article. Well, this article isn’t that. Instead, I am going to tell you about five ways you can give more back to society through various charitable schemes, rather than the for-the-most-part hopeless self-improvement lifestyle changes you can make.
1. Donate your stuff instead of throwing it out
When you have a clean in your room and decide to get rid of some of your old clothes, books, shoes – don’t forget that there are charities who will take bags of your stuff to give to those who really need it, instead of you just throwing it out. Some places in Nottingham that will take donations are Barnardo’s, Oxfam, White Rose 2 and British Heart Foundation. The Arches in Nottingham also accept household goods and furniture if you have anything you need to shift come moving out for the summer!
2. Cut your hair for Little Princess Trust
Little Princess Trust is a charity that makes wigs for children and young adults who have lost their hair through illness. All you have to do is cut your hair (7 inches minimum) and send it to them in the post. For more details just look them up online http://www.littleprincesses.org.uk/about-us/ . If you’re considering cutting your hair anyway, why not give something back while you do!
3. Got LOADS of books to donate?
Visit https://www.betterworldbooks.co.uk/Info-Donate-Books-m-68.aspx and either visit one of their book banks or (if you have 2 or more boxes) you can arrange for a collection. You might have enough yourself, or team up with some friends. Every book you donate is either sold to raise money for non-profit literacy organisations, donated directly, or recycled. Whichever way you look at it, your books will go to good use!
4. Become a volunteer!
The easiest first step is visiting the SU Volunteer Team on the C Floor of Portland building or calling 01158468750 to find out more. Every charity and non-profit organisation are always looking for more volunteers, so find something you are passionate about and put in an application. As a student, you have more time now than you probably will for many years to come, so why not use that free time you have to do something for a worthy cause?
5. Shop in charity shops
All the joys of a shopping spree with less of a cost and more good karma? It’s a win-win! Nottingham is filled with charity shops that have an amazing selection of goods from clothes to electronics to homeware to furniture, and the proceeds will go to a worthy cause. As students, any way to save money is always welcome.
On a final note to do with charity, we will be hosting our annual fashion show on March 19th, raising money for Coppafeel, the charity who want us all to get to know our boobs to save lives! This year our fashion show theme is NOUGHTIES THROWBACK and will be held at Fat Cat. Stay tuned for more exciting news on our BIGGEST EVENT OF THE YEAR!
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