Combatting Hopelessness with Solidarity and Service

2025 has had a bit of a rocky start for many of us. It seems that every week the political, economic, and global uncertainties deepen. We also live in an age of hyperconnectivity where it's hard to avoid news about the atrocities occurring around the world. As the future grows more unpredictable, so does our collective anxiety. 

 

When we see what's occurring all around us, we may begin to feel helpless. The issues facing us seem monumental, and it's true that most are complicated and have been plaguing us for years. It's understandable to wonder "What can I even do about this?" and grapple with feelings of hopelessness.

 

If you are feeling hopeless or helpless regarding the current state of the world, those feelings are valid and you are not alone. First and foremost, we recommend seeking the support of a therapist or another helping professional if the feelings are unbearable and/or impact your ability to care for yourself or others. Sharing these concerns with someone you trust can help alleviate the heaviness you may be feeling.

 

Just as we can turn to other people when we're in pain, we can also turn to our communities when the world is in pain. We can choose to stand in solidarity with those in our community so no one feels alone. One of the easiest ways to accomplish this is to participate in community service for those in need. Volunteering at a food bank, senior center, community garden, or other organization is one example of action we can take. The internet and your local library are great ways to find such opportunities. 

 

Engaging in community service:

• provides a direct way for us to help and care for others in need
• allows us to see the immediate, positive impact our actions can have on others
• narrows our focus to things we can do locally to change the world 
• helps us feel like we're part of something bigger than ourselves
• connects us with resources that we can utilize ourselves if needed in the future
• empowers us to take additional actions that benefit our community

The world has been through many tough periods lately that we've survived by turning towards and supporting each other. If you feel hopeless and are itching to change the world for the better, consider engaging in community service in your local area.

Hope Clinic: https://thehopeclinic.org/ Volunteering - https://thehopeclinic.org/volunteer

• Locations in Ypsilanti and Westland

• Provides medical, dental, and behavioral health support for those without insurance

• Free hot meals are provided 6 nights per week

• Food pantry with fresh produce (food delivery to homebound individuals)

• Onsite laundromat at no cost

• Volunteers needed for food pantry and health clinic (licensed professionals only)

• Visit the website for the volunteer interest form: https://thehopeclinic.org/volunteer

 

Mutual Aid Network of Ypsilanti: https://ypsimutualaid.org/Programs - https://ypsimutualaid.org/programs/ Contact - https://ypsimutualaid.org/contact/

• Many opportunities to support people in need in the Ypsilanti area

• Community wide “Free Markets” where people can bring things they no longer need and find things they’re looking for.

• Food pantry - every 2nd and 4th saturday of the month

• Other ways to get involved

• Follow The MANY Announcement Thread on Signal to be notified of volunteer opportunities (Volunteers must attend 1 logistics meeting on Zoom or in-person before being able to volunteer at an event; Signal thread provides more information about this.