tiny steps, big impact

Driving community change can feel like an overwhelming task—lofty, daunting, and at times, seemingly impossible. When we start thinking about making a difference, obstacles disguised as questions often creep in:

- Do I have enough time to make an impact?

- Do I have enough influence to inspire others?

- Do I have enough money to contribute meaningfully?

But here's the thing: change doesn't always require grand gestures or massive resources. In fact, just starting—taking that first tiny step—can be an incredible momentum builder. The key is to focus on your locus of control, the things you can influence, and take that first little step. What might that look like in practice? Here are a few simple, actionable ideas:

- Take a moment to connect with the person checking you out at the grocery store. A smile or a quick chat can brighten their day.

- Go for a walk in your neighborhood and pick up five pieces of trash along the way.

- Stop to chat with a neighbor who lives alone—they might appreciate the company more than you realize.

- Push in another neighbor's garbage can from the curb after trash day.

- Start a GoFundMe for a friend who finds themselves down on luck.

- Make extra dinner and share some leftovers with someone who could use a home-cooked meal. (not for me, because I can’t cook, but you get the gist…)

These small actions might seem insignificant on their own, but collectively, they create ripples of kindness and connection that can transform a community.

The other day, my good friend Erin and I decided to take this idea a step further. While out on a hike, we created a "community survival kit" using a thrifted cigar box. We filled it with little treasures—snacks, bandaids, a couple of bucks, gum, cough drops, a sticker, and more—and left it at the top of the trail. Our hope? That it would make someone smile and inspire others to leave their own little treasures for the next hiker.

This small act reminded me that improving our communities doesn't always require grand plans or big budgets. It's about showing up, little by little, in ways that feel manageable and meaningful.

So, here's my challenge to you: take one small step today. It doesn't have to be perfect, and it doesn't have to be big. Just start. Because little by little, those tiny actions add up—and together, we can make our communities better, one small step at a time.