USAA
COMMUNITY

BrianaHartzell

I try really hard at the beginning of each year to make a reasonable list of goals for the upcoming year. I feel refreshed and rested after a fabulous Christmas in the Caribbean and have enjoyed some holiday time off; is there a better time to pledge to make some positive changes in my life!? This is a perfect time to start with a clean slate and make some goals for the upcoming year.

According to USA.gov, there are 13 popular New Year's resolutions this year. They are:

Drink Less Alcohol
Eat Healthy Food
Get a Better Education
Get a Better Job
Get Fit
Lose Weight
Manage Debt
Manage Stress
Quit Smoking
Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
Save Money
Take a Trip
Volunteer to Help Others

I encourage you to take the last resolution, to volunteer, and put that at the top of your list! Here are some of the ways I have resolved to help others this year:

Family Readiness Group, commonly referred to as the FRG. This group is generally a command sponsored organization of family members and volunteers. This is an easy and local way to help someone in your spouses unit or squadron. They often need help with fundraisers, hosting events and organizing communication.
Check with your local Salvation Army. They often have many volunteer opportunities; collecting warm clothes, working a donation station or sponsoring a family.
Support deployed Soldier organizations:
1. Books for Soldiers: send deployed soldiers books, DVDs and magazines
2. Operation Care Packages: send a care package
3. Soldiers Angels
Don't forget about our furry friends! Start a tradition in your family of giving to a pet food bank. The ASPCA is a great place to start!
Use a site like Volunteer Match to find local opportunities to volunteer and spread some New Years cheer!
Serve.gov is another great site that allows you to search volunteer opportunities by your interests and location.