In honor of Earth Day (yes, that’s today!) why not plant a tree? Can’t plant a tree? How about something smaller, like flowers? The unexpected benefits of nurturing them will stay with you longer than you think.

So far, other nightmares include: getting AIDS, getting typhoid, getting yellow fever, getting dehydrated, getting cholera, getting _____ (fill in the blank with your favourite disease or infection), forgetting to pack malaria pills, forgetting to pack tampons, forgetting to pack shoes, forgetting to pack _____ (fill in the blank with your favourite essential item or medication).

There’s definitely something to be said for following your passion and there’s absolutely nothing keeping you from starting TODAY. Nobody’s saying you have to sprint for the philanthropist finish line right off the bat – we all need to make ends meet – but even baby steps will bring you closer to making a difference and feeling good about the legacy you’re leaving as you move forward.

These kids, more than anyone else in the town we stayed in, were so free with their love. They wanted our attention and would do a lot to get it, including misbehavior. I learned a lot about diligence in the Salvation Army School–in order to shine in overcrowded situations, you either have to dazzle or shock. There was a good blend of both, and I was really challenged as I learned to remain composed in the midst of chaos.

I decided that I would volunteer at a local soup kitchen. I walked in full of hope and change, and I admit- a bit of smugness at the idea that I was now going to (finally!) be one of those people who did what they said they would do. I, Brandy, was going to volunteer. I was going to make a difference. Instead, I was told NO.

Are you currently doing volunteer work? Do you have a touching story that could inspire others to get involved in their communities? Maybe you were even the beneficiary of someone else’s kindness, and are ready to pay-it-forward by sharing your experience. Submit your story to bechange@handsin.org today!

Truthfully? I had absolutely no idea how I was going to pay for it. Everything had a price tag attached to it, the senior picnic, grad night, yearbook photos, and of course the biggest dollar sign of all: prom.