Hawai’i has often thought of itself as an ‘ohana that is generous and looks out for others in its community.
Some recent studies have given some in that ‘ohana reason to question that premise. A report last year, for example, said Honolulu ranks 42nd among 50 major cities in volunteerism.
And certainly as grim economic news swirls around us daily, you have to wonder if that will erode some of the good will we have toward others.
The will is there, say those who work with charities and volunteers. But they concede that tough economic times take a toll on nonprofits and their donors and volunteers.
They point to a couple of factors: In high-priced Hawai’i people have less disposable income compared with people making comparable salaries on the Mainland, and many Island residents must work two or three jobs. That means less money for donations and less time to give to others. Also, baby boomers at retirement age are more likely to have to continue working in Hawai’i, meaning a smaller pool of retiree volunteers.
Still, a front-page story last week reported on findings on a study in the journal Science that found that people who make gifts to others or to charities — no matter how small the gift — are happier than those who do not share.
How can this conundrum be resolved?
Those who want to give back to the community, to make a difference, can find a cause that ties in with the areas they feel passionate about or where they give their money. Parents can help at their child’s school or sports team. Cancer survivors may want to help agencies that help cancer patients. Or try one-on-one volunteering. Does an elderly neighbor need help in getting groceries or with housework? Or spend an hour or two with a shut-in. That’s all volunteering — and making a difference.
Even in tough times, all of us can help each other.

— Anne Harpham

This entry was posted on Thursday, March 27th, 2008 at 4:42 pm and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.