In the past several months that I have been living in Detroit, the city has presented me with so many opportunities to give. I have been able to serve by giving my time through the monthly challenges, where the fellows partner with different non-profits from around Detroit, as well as through other volunteer opportunities.

Although I was unaware of this at the time, I used to think that the only people who could really give valuable, impactful gifts were the ones who had lots of resources to spare. While I would occasionally sign up to volunteer at one-time events, I don’t think I really believed that my small contribution of time or skills really mattered at all. But giving in Detroit has offered me a new perspective completely. The giving opportunities that I have come across in the city aren’t ones that just ask for my money, but they are ones that really value my time, my intellect, my words, and my hands and feet. 

In the monthly challenges, I feel that my creativity and innovative thinking is impactful. And at events such as Detroit SOUP or “Do It For Detroit,” my attendance and vote makes a very big difference for the different entrepreneurial groups present. Giving is turning out not to mean just a call for a hefty donation in the form of a check, but also in the form of some compassion, some energy, and even just some minutes. So the giving pillar of Challenge Detroit might mean something completely different—and better—than what I originally thought after all.

– bcl.