Three easy ways to give back to your community in the New Year

From COVID-19 to historic wildfires, 2020 was a challenge. It’s safe to say we’re all ready for a fresh start in 2021, but we recommend ditching the traditional New Year’s resolution. Instead, resolve to make 2021 great by giving back to Grand County. We have some simple, easy-to-achieve ideas to help you start the New Year on a charitable note. They're so easy you don't need to change out of sweatpants for any of them ... unless, of course, you'd like an excuse to dress up.

Do your online shopping with Amazon Smile

Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re shopping online more than ever these days. But online shopping can be more than just convenient. It can help support charities like the Grand Foundation.

Through the Amazon Smile program, 0.5% of your eligible purchases will be donated to a charitable organization of your choice. Plus, you can choose to buy an item off a participating charity’s AmazonSmile wishlist. It’s as easy as going to smile.amazon.com to shop.

Give blood, save lives

Most of us have more blood then we need and can save lives by donating a little excess. Did you know we can physically donate blood every 56 days? Giving blood just once this year could save up to three lives. You may have to head down the hill and into the city but you can find blood drives through the American Red Cross.

Volunteer your time … virtually

Although in-person volunteer opportunities might be limited thanks to COVID-19, the need for volunteers is greater than ever. From writing grants to tutoring via Zoom, you can make a difference from the comfort of your own home by volunteering virtually. Contact your favorite local charity or visit grandvolunteers.org to find volunteer opportunities.

Happy New Year, Grand County! We wish you all the best in 2021 and thank you for your ongoing support.