THE STRONG CHALLENGE
WEEK 5: SERVE
Why do we always seem to have time for “I” but not for “us”? Time for self-centered binging and not for moments of serving others. For some, it is fear or a recent loss that drives them to hold tightly to what is theirs. The problem is, we are designed to live differently, to be givers and not just takers. To take hold of a weapon of the spirit and look out for our friends and our neighbors.
If we are willing to prioritize the needs of others, to reach for our best things to give, and to carve out time to serve, we will discover the transformational rewards that come only from practicing heroic love. The rewards are great, but the motivation to do nothing can be greater… push through! Be STRONG.
This week, along with your 20-minute fitness goals, open up a can of loving others. You will be transformed— this is how STRONG works.
WHEN YOU SERVE, YOU EXPAND YOUR SPIRIT AND LIFT UP OTHERS
Week 5: STRONG ACTIVITIES
Do what you “can” and donate to our food drive for SSKP
The Shoreline Soup Kitchen & Pantries are supporting more families than ever! Last week they gave away over 10,800 lbs of food to local residents! The Valley Shore YMCA has supported the food pantry with a donation of 15,000 pounds of produce from our garden over the past 6 years. This month we are collecting non-perishable canned food, we hope to collect 500 items to donate.
There are two collection areas at the Y. One is located across from the Welcome Center inside the Y. The second is located to the left of the front entrance of the Y.
Suggestions for REST Week
1. Buy lunch for someone (Uber Eats)
2. Mow a neighbors lawn (do a good job)
3. Send a gift certificate to someone who lost their job (Amazon)
4. Ask your Y about current volunteer opportunities
5. Deliver meals (Meals on Wheels)
6. Volunteer (Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts)
7. Mentor a youth (Big Brothers/Big Sisters)
8. Fill a box of some good stuff and donate it (Goodwill)
9. Buy school supplies for youth (bring it to you local school)
10. Pray for someone in need (and tell them)
11. Help someone find a job (use your network)
12. Pay for someone’s coffee (Starbucks)
13. Write an inspiring article and share it (LinkedIn)
14. Stop complaining, get involved (Social Justice)
16. Sponsor someone (a YMCA scholarship)
17. Donate Blood (Blood Bank)
18. Do extra stuff around the house (stop being lazy)
19. Encourage five people on the Strong Challenge (Facebook group)
20. Fill a box with food and take it to your local food pantry (do this with your family)
21. Build a house! (Habitat For Humanity)
22. Call a senior, check-in, and ask if they need help.
23. Clean a park (bring your own garbage bags)
24. Donate to the SPCA or adopt a dog (or cat)
25. Do a virtual 5k for a good cause
26. Make a wish come true (Make-A-Wish Foundation)
27. Donate cash (be generous—give big)
28. Donate that extra toilet paper you’re hoarding (seriously)
29. Make PPE masks for childcare workers, students, seniors….
30. Say nice things on your zoom meetings this week
Thank you to our partners:
