Start Making Change Today: Getinvolved.ca

Today TVO launched a new social network, specifically for connecting people and organizations who are working to change and improve our world.

Getinvolved.ca lists itself as "a social network matching like-minded individuals and organizations to make change possible". Individual people, as well as non-profit organizations and NGO's can list areas they need help with, and areas they can help others with. So if you are a photographer and want to do something to help out the environment, you could list yourself as a volunteer offering your unique skills.

You can also create or join a challenge. For example, Nature Canada has posted a "Water Conservation Pledge". You can sign up to pledge to conserve water, and tell people how you are doing: "just started!", "not so well", "so-so…", "going well…", "doing great!", or "i did it!".

While you're there, take our challenge to Take Transit One Extra Trip Per Week for One Month.

You can also post a need, which perhaps other members might be able to fill. For example, if you are thinking about cleaning up a local park, you could "post a need" for local volunteers to come and help out. In addition, you can send messages to other members, and "follow" them to see what they are up to.

There are several communities (categories) in which you can view needs and information, including:

• Arts & Culture
• Environment
• International Development
• Youth & Education
• Social Services & Social Justice
• Health & Wellness

The website is part of a 25 part series to air on TVO "celebrating people from 7-70 who are making a difference in their schools, in their community and through their work".

Our Review

All in all, this site is very well done, and is a great idea. If you are thinking about volunteering or helping out, this is a good way to find something that suits your specific interests and skills, instead of "shopping around" organizations hoping they have a need that fits you.

We're not sure how useful the "take a challenge" part will be, but at the very least, you might find a change you can make that you didn't think of before, which is helpful.

Try the site, and see if there is something there you like. At the very least, you may find something you can do that will help make a difference.

Image by unloveable