The United States is a resource-rich country. And yet, it seems we don’t have the resources needed to feed the hungry, find shelter for the homeless, get kids off the street, solve the drug problem or make a dent in a host of other societal issues.

So you might ask, if our country is incapable of addressing these major problems, what can one person do to make a difference?

It’s simple: Become the resource yourself. Find a way to say yes instead of no.

At a recent dinner, I spoke to the crowd about my own volunteer work with Hearts4Doxies as a foster for abandoned dogs. My job is to take these scared, often underweight and sometimes abused animals into my home to feed them, give them minimal training, love them and build up their confidence before they go on to their new, forever homes.

As part of my talk, I mentioned my friend Patricia Malone, who can’t foster (she has too many dogs of her own) but is on the road almost every weekend transporting these pups, sometimes from Oregon to the Canadian border. She often uses her own money to buy leashes, harnesses, food, dog treats and dog toys for the little ones she transports. She pays vet bills and recently, returned day after day to a location over the mountains to find a little dog lost by another transporter.

I couldn’t do all of that. I know my limitations.

But just because I can’t do what Patricia does, doesn’t mean I don’t do anything. There are other causes that need my help.

When asked, I can volunteer for a scholarship committee or city task force. Donate auction items. Mentor a young, aspiring writer. Help with my Rotary fundraiser. Facilitate a nonprofit board retreat. Or put together holiday baskets for women at the homeless shelter.

I can do all of that and more, because I am a resource. I spread my commitments throughout the year so nothing breaks the bank – money, time or otherwise. If I can fit the request into my schedule, I say,“Yeah, I can do that.”

Each of us is a potential resource, and our nonprofits need us. Maybe you’re good with numbers and could help a nonprofit looking for a treasurer. Or maybe you can put pen to paper and write a newsletter. Perhaps you have organizational skills and could join a special event committee. Even if you don’t have a specific skill or talent, you can always donate a bag of gently used clothes to the Renton Kiwanis Clothes Bank or a bag of food to the Salvation Army Renton Rotary Food Bank.

Let’s face it, when asked for help by a nonprofit in need or someone less fortunate, you’re being given the opportunity to be a resource to your community. That opportunity is only limited by your imagination and your willingness to say, “Yes, I can do that.”

Lynn Bohart, FAHP is Executive Director of the Renton Community Foundation. To find out more about how you could benefit the community, give the Foundation a call at 425- 282-5199.