How To Support A Cause Without Donating Money

How To Support A Political Cause Without Donating Money

5 free ways to help enact change

As the 2016 election approaches, it’s more evident than ever money influences politics. Private donations fuel campaigns and help candidates win. This is where support for Democratic candidates divides. Sanders relies on contributions from over 2 million individual donors. Clinton is backed by Wall Street and Super PACs.

Even as a two-time Sanders donor, I still receive countless e-mails soliciting donations. On the night of the most recent GOP debate, the campaign texted me: “Watch and donate $20 to Bernie every time [Republicans] upset you.” Quite frankly, I don’t have enough money to do that. This lead me to ask myself, “How can I support a cause without donating money?” I certainly don’t have to hit the Powerball to enact change in my community.

Volunteer

If you’re a feminist, offer a helping hand to a local women’s organization. It might be a women’s shelter or crisis center. Enlighten other women about how feminist issues affect you and them.

Contact politicians

Call, visit, and write to their offices. Tweet them. If you support food safety, you probably support GMO labeling. Let them know your opinion!

Write about it

Start a blog. Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper. Pitch a story to a publication or other news organization. For instance, progressives often use DailyKos to discuss their cause.

Attend a political function

Attend a meeting, rally, demonstration, phone-bank, sit-in. If you’re a parent that cares about comprehensive sex education, you probably should attend school board meetings.

Talk about it

Talk to friends, family, colleagues — anyone willing to listen. Sammy Nickalls, a fellow Femsplain contributor, rallied support for the hashtag, #TalkingAboutIt, to raise awareness about mental health. Conversations range from weekly therapy appointments to struggling with depression to relaxation strategies.

Personally, I benefit most from talking about a political topic. That way, I’m able to engage with my sphere of influence. I have the opportunity to not only express myself but potentially recruit advocates for a specific cause. Lately, I’ve been talking a lot about reproductive rights with friends, family, and on social media. That’s my contribution.

Danielle Corcione is a freelance writer located in Omaha, Nebraska. Follow her on Twitter: @decorcione.

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