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By Rebecca Fending
We’ve finally made it to 2021! After a hellish year behind us, it feels as though we’re prepared to take on whatever we may face in this new year.
The fresh start of New Year’s is often associated with a new and improved diet, exercise regimen and maybe even a new hobby to occupy our extra time. While more leafy greens and painting are certainly great resolutions to implement and keep, integrating more philanthropy into your life may be the change you need.
It’s common sense that regular exercise and eating right for your body are two things that can help keep your physical being in shape and content, but what about your mind?
Often times, doing good for the betterment of others has a tremendously positive effect on one’s mental wellbeing. Whether it’s through volunteering your time, donating to causes you believe in or even starting your own charity or organization for a cause that means something to you, philanthropy has been proven to boost levels of serotonin (the “happy” molecule) in the brain resulting in a better mood and state of mind, according to several different academic studies. This isn’t to say that philanthropy should replace an updated exercise routine in the new year, but it may offer the extra boost in your overall wellbeing that you want.
Philanthropy can easily be meshed with last month’s theme of “creating a legacy,” and it doesn’t mean you have to pour out money for a charitable cause. Philanthropic means can even be supporting an organization through attending events as a volunteer or as a patron. One of these events is the Angels for Artists event in Tampa. Scheduled for January 28, from 5:30 to 9 pm, this event is a silent auction for local artists to sell their work. The event offers attendees the opportunity to fill their homes with locally made art while supporting struggling, talented artists. Purchasing one piece of art can change the world of an artist and encourage them to keep creating.
Another event is the Pickup the Ball fundraiser dinner in Fort Myers. Focused on inspiring local youth into transforming their community, Pickup the Ball will be hosting a dinner and silent auction event on January 17 at Millennial Brewing Company to raise funds for housing new members of the organization.
No matter what you choose to do for the new year, make sure it’s something that will bring you and those around you happiness.
Here’s to a great year through philanthropy and care.
Happy New Year and we’ll see you in February!
