The majority of people tend to be good. Unfortunately it’s the nasty ones that always stand out. But it doesn’t have to be that way – with more people in the community making an effort to be good citizens it’s possible to eradicate the bad and create a place where everyone can feel safe and happy. There are just a few little things that you can do to become a good citizen in your community.

*Smile

It may seem obvious but this one gesture can have enormous effects on the way people perceive you and the overall atmosphere in your local area. One smile can make someone else’s day plus smiling is infectious so you can pass it on to others.

*Pick up the litter.

You might not have dropped it but your community is your own backyard. Throw your own litter in the bin all the time and if you spot a wrapper or can lying on the grass pick it up and throw it in the rubbish bin. You might just set a good example for others in your community.

*Volunteer in your community

 Volunteering is a very fulfilling activity that will help out others and improve your own self worth. Offer to help out with the school crossing, offer to spend time in the children’s or old people’s home to read or assist with other activities, spend an afternoon once a month at the dog or homeless shelter.

*Help out your neighbors

It’s not uncommon to find that we don’t know who lives on either side of our fence or on the same floor of our apartment building. Knowing your neighbors and knowing that you can count on each other helps make the community safer and friendlier. When someone moves in to your street introduce yourself with some home made biscuits and let them know if there’s anything they need to ask.

*Values and morals

If you have children being a good citizen to the community means teaching them values and morals. They should know how to say please and thank you. Giving up their seat on public transport should be the norm. It’s the little things that matter most. Teach them to volunteer and treat everyone equally.

Being a good citizen in your community means taking an active part in your community. Volunteering and getting to know your neighbors will help you do that. By changing your behavior and being a model citizen you will improve the quality of your entire community.