Exploring Careers That Make a Difference in Communities


Intro
In today's diverse employment landscape, individuals increasingly search for careers that not only fulfill personal aspirations but also contribute to the well-being of others. Jobs dedicated to helping those in need have multiplier effects, impacting both individuals and communities on various levels. As society becomes more aware of social challenges, the significance of these roles grows. This article delves into unique career paths, highlights the skills necessary for these fields, and discusses the gratifying aspects of such work.
The center of this exploration revolves around understanding unique jobs aimed at fostering positive change. In detailing the nature of these careers, readers will gain insights that can guide their professional choices in alignment with altruistic ambitions. The current job market's evolving landscape shows a clear inclination toward roles that support, uplift, and empower various demographics encountering hardship. The importance of playing a part in this area cannot be overstated. Thus, this narrative will lay a solid framework for analyzing effectiveness, involvement in social matters, and the eventuality of pursuing meaningful employment.
This article will specifically highlight:
- Job types available in helping professions
- Skills and qualifications required for these positions
- Financial challenges and potential rewards associated with altruistic careers
By setting the stage for informed choices, this discussion enriches understanding and serves as a practical guide for those keen to make a difference.
Market Analysis
Current Market Trends
The growth trajectory of jobs aiding individuals in need reflects broader societal shifts. Increasing poverty rates, mental health concerns, and disaster response demands underscore a need for careers aimed at resolving social issues. Various sectors, including healthcare, education, and social work, are expanding, driven towards community support initiatives and humanitarian efforts.
Industry-specific Analysis
Careers such as social work, counseling, and community outreach demonstrate differentiated needs and qualifications. The healthcare industry, particularly, continues to face robust demand for professionals capable of responding to mental and physical health crises. Programs targeting low-income families or global humanitarian efforts present various employment opportunities as well. Therefore, aspiring professionals must remain adaptable, staying informed about sector-specific requirements and developments.
Market Volatility and Risk Factors
However, potential market volatility remains a crucial consideration. In economic downturns, funding for social programs may diminish. Organizations focused on helping others can become susceptible to budgetary constraints, impacting job security. Maintaining readiness for market fluctuations is fundamental for those considering a career path in this domain. Evaluating work stability alongside the potential for career advancement encourages informed decision-making among interested individuals.
Understanding the Role of Jobs in Social Impact
In contemporary society, jobs that contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities hold paramount significance. Understanding the role of such employment is essential not only for personal development but also for societal advancement. These roles serve as pillars for creating a more equitable and supportive world.
One primary aspect of jobs in social impact is how they influence community dynamics. Workers in this sphere engage with diverse populations and respond to unique needs, facilitating positive change. Through service-oriented professions, organizations tackle issues such as poverty, health care, and education inequities. Each profession within this realm has its unique set of challenges and rewards that deserve attention and analysis.
The benefits of pursuing a career in social impact are substantial. Engaging in work that helps others can provide individuals with a sense of purpose. Job satisfaction arises not only from personal accomplishment but also from the reflection of changes made in othersβ lives. Being part of this process enhances community well-being and often bears personal rewards equally palpable to salary packages.
Moreover, itβs important to consider that working in these professions often requires collaboration across sectors. Those involved may find themselves working with government agencies, nonprofits, and private organizations alike. The sophisticated collaboration elevates community issues into the broader social discourse, ultimately advocating for sustainable change.
Key Elements of Social Impact Work:
- Community engagement
- Addressing systemic barriers
- Promoting collaboration across sectors
- Enhancing personal growth and job fulfillment
The complexity in understanding the role and importance of jobs in social impact lies in integrating traditional job acquisitions with a more altruistic organizational strategy. This integration fosters new pathways for employment where candidates not only seek financial benefits but also aim to contribute to a broader societal good.
Defining Socially Responsible Employment
Socially responsible employment revolves around the principle that companies and individuals carry ethical obligations to improve society. It encapsulates various roles that aspire to consider not just profit generation but the welfare of people and the planet. In this definition, employees engage their skills and talents to create positive outreach efforts.
Moreover, socially responsible employment often receives recognition from entities based on their impact measurements. The consideration for nodes of improvement falls squarely upon gaining insights from communities. Therefore, continuous feedback mechanisms become vital.
Organizations have even begun developing career tracks designed explicitly for employees committed to social assistance. Not only does this attract talent fueled by intrinsic motivations, but it also boosts loyalty and retention among workers.
In this landscape, finding positions in firms that iterate the impact narrative is the norm rather than an exception.
The Importance of Helping Professions
The helping professions demonstrate a particular necessity within social impact employment. Professions like nursing, social work, and teaching rightfully occupy their positions atop the hierarchy of altruistic careers. Their unique commitment indicates that uplifting others often requires keen empathy, elaborate training, and utmost resilience.
These roles are not just laborious; they involve significant emotional investments. Health care providers engage with patients in vulnerable stages, requiring compassion and understanding. Likewise, educators mold young minds. Their commitment yields profound changes in personal and societal development.
Career opportunities in helping professions often include diverse paths, which can lead to leading community efforts or engaging in public health education. The contribution to a more sound societal framework validates the importance of these jobs. In essence, they constitute the essence of functional and dynamical societies.
Exploring these professions can unfold deeper discussions, such as relocation related to job availability, ethical implications, or workplace culture. Addressing areas in need emphasizes the pressing confidence the workforce must uphold mental well-being, characterized by the intention to uplift amid hardship.
Health and Social Care Jobs
Health and social care jobs play a crucial role in nurturing individuals and communities. Professionals in this area address both physical and emotional well-being. They work diligently to improve quality of life and assist those who may be suffering from various challenges. Celebrating these jobs sheds light on their importance for fostering a productive and just society. These roles, whether they are in healthcare or community services, often deal with vulnerable populations. They navigate complex needs and provide much-needed support.
Nursing and Healthcare Roles
Nursing and healthcare positions are essential in every society. Professional nurses are often on the front lines of patient care. They monitor health conditions, administer medications, and provide comfort. Further, their roles demand a wide array of skills. Critical thinking and compassionate communication make nurses invaluable.
Healthcare roles extend beyond nursing. Physicians, physical therapists, and paramedics also contribute. Each of these professionals plays a different part but shares a singular commitment to health improvement. From treating illnesses to coordinating care plans, their work positively impacts lives daily.


Healthcare careers, while demanding, often offer extensive personal and emotional rewards. The feel good factors are high. Knowing how oneβs efforts have restored someone's health or happiness promotes fulfilment and job satisfaction. But there are challengesβlong hours and the emotional toll of this work are common. Working in such an environment requires resilience and flexibility.
Mental Health Professionals
Mental health professionals occupy a unique and vital niche in health and social care. These individuals, including therapists and counselors, support the emotional and psychological well-being of their clients. Their roles have gained prominence in recent years due to growing recognition of mental health issues. Assisting people in navigating their mental landscapes is an art and science.
Why is this important? Mental health affects every aspect of life, yet stigma persists. By providing services, these professionals not only aid individuals, but they also challenge societal attitudes towards mental illness. This work can have a butterfly effect, influencing families, communities, and future generations.
Additionally, the pathways to becoming a mental health professional vary. Degrees in psychology, social work, or counseling are typical starting points. Many pursue certification and extensive training. Experience and empathy, though, often are the most effective tools they use in their practice. In challenging situations, skills are crucial. Therapists help clients put feelings into words during struggles.
Social Workers: Advocates for Change
Social workers are advocates for change within communities. They empower individuals, families, and groups to overcome obstacles. By addressing systemic barriers, they strive to enhance social equity. This profession involves assessing needs and connecting people to valuable resources and services.
One key aspect of this job is using a holistic approach. Social workers understand that issues often stem from various factors, including socio-economic ones. They therefore provide more than just immediate aid. Equipping people with tools for long-term solutions represents an integral part of their mission.
The career path for social workers generally requires a bachelorβs degree in social work. Many continue for master's degrees or specialized certifications. This assures competency and knowledge in practice. Indeed, effective social workers possess strong interpersonal skills. They often become trusted guides during trying times.
Working in diverse environments, social workers facilitate two-way dialogues. They adapt to different settings, from schools to hospitals, showcasing flexibility. Their commitment often inspires community spiritβthat is an inherent reward of the job. The journeys they support remind everyone of their shared humanity. By working tirelessly, they raise awareness of pressing social issues.
"To be a social worker is to be an agent of change, providing hope to those faced with a challenge."
Education and Coaching Careers
Education and coaching careers constitute a vital sector in the landscape of jobs dedicated to helping people in need. These roles focus on nurturing growth, potential, and self-awareness in individuals. The impacts can be substantial, extending well beyond the classroom or coaching sessions. By participating in these professions, individuals actively contribute to the development of culture and society at large.
There are several noteworthy elements regarding the benefits of education and coaching careers. First, these jobs often foster lifelong learning, not just for students, but also for educators and coaches. Such environments stimulate a cycle of knowledge-sharing which can bridge the generational divide.
Secondly, individuals in education and coaching roles often experience substantial fulfillment. Seeing students, clients, or team members succeed brings a refreshingly personal dimension to their careers. Finally, these professions possess the unique ability to cultivate individuals as future leaders, shaping the generations of tomorrow.
Teachers: Shaping Future Generations
Teachers are vital architects in shaping the minds and lives of future generations. They provide not only knowledge but also the skills necessary for students to thrive in various realms of life. The foundation they establish within the classroom translates to the long-term success of individuals, influencing entire communities.
There are noteworthy responsibilities flush against the weight of being a teacher. Beyond standard lesson plans, educators navigate the realms of personal and socio-emotional development. They identify strengths and redirect weaknesses, allowing learners to uncover their potential.
Furthermore, in an increasingly divided society, teachers often become advocates and champions for equitable access to education. This background includes addressing disparities that minority students may experience. Education serves as a means of breaking down these barriers. Therefore, unconventional teaching methods can often merge with technology posts reinforcing inclusivity.
Special Education Professionals
Special education professionals hold crucial roles in supporting individuals with disabilities. Their work significantly influences not only academic outcomes but also the true essence of individual dignity. They ensure students with specific needs receive tailored educational experiences that address their unique challenges.
Licensed special educators collaborate extensively with families and departments, advocating for resources, individualized plans, and accommodations necessary for student success. Their involvement can include:
- Tracking progress systematically
- Offering behavioral strategies suitable for the learner
- Implementing recovery support techniques that are often crucial
The dedication shown by these professionals fuels progress not just among students but extends bittersweet and unsung to their families. While the work has challenges, numerous rewards manifest as breakthroughs in learning.
Life Coaches and Mentors
Life coaches and mentors hold influential positions within their roles, often steering career paths, personal growth, or deeper self-understanding. They bridge the significant gaps that individuals may traverse. Life coaches, much like educators, foster foundations with knowledge that catalyzes change among family members, neighborhoods, and possibly generations.
Engaging with individuals offering ASCII techniques, clarity in life's purpose evolves. Many clients are guided through feelings of insecurity or ambiguity about the future through continued dialogue. In both one-on-one situations and group workshops, frameworks for enriching self-awareness unfurl alongside skill enhancement.
The art of coaching also intersects with mentorship.Listening words in depth and reflecting personal experiences offer insights that exceed traditional job training.
Emphasizing supporting roles, these guides ensure their mentees not only assimilate information but implement learned principles into practice. Their unseen effects echo profoundly, leading to fortified relationships essential during transitions.
"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." - Nelson Mandela
Taken together, education and coaching careers equip individuals with resources vital for success, shaping and empowering the diverse talents of human potential.
Community Service and Nonprofit Roles
In today's world, community service and nonprofit roles play a critical part in addressing social issues. These jobs exemplify the commitment to making a difference in the lives of others and enhancing community welfare. They provide a structure where dedicated individuals can contribute to causes bigger than themselves. In recent years, awareness of these roles has grown immensely.
Community service missions focus on various areas including education, health, and social justice. Employees in nonprofits often work tirelessly to advocate for groups or causes that are marginalized or overlooked. The importance of these pursuits cannot be overstated; they form the foundation of a compassionate society.
Nonprofit Organization Employees
Employees in nonprofit organizations take on a range of responsibilities designed to further the mission of the organization. Their work may include fundraising, program management, and outreach efforts. For example, if you work for organizations like Habitat for Humanity or the American Red Cross, you may engage directly with community members, developing programs tailored to meet their needs. Nonprofit employees often wear multiple hats, allowing them versatility and a unique insight into those they serve.


The work can sometimes be more challenging compared to the private sector. Resources may be limited, and staffing constraints can add pressure, which can lead to burnout. However, the rewards of working to uplift society are substantial. Finding purpose through their jobs often outweighs personal sacrifices.
Volunteers: The Backbone of Society
Many nonprofit organizations rely on volunteers to extend their reach and enhance services they provide. Volunteers contribute time and skills without expecting monetary compensation. This altruism creates a sense of community, emphasizing collaboration towards shared goals. Numbers show that volunteers can dramatically increase the amount of work done in nonprofit settings; they enable organizations to do more with less.
Volunteering can also provide personal growth. People gain valuable experiences that may enhance their professional skills or clarify their career ambitions. Through community engagement, volunteers can connect with diverse groups of individuals, broadening their perspectives on socio-economic issues.
A survey indicated that 62 million Americans volunteered in 2022, demonstrating the impactful presence of volunteers in driving social change.
Community Development Workers
Community development workers strive to foster growth and improve living conditions within communities. They assess local challenges and work with a range of stakeholders, including governments, nonprofits, and community members, to address those needs effectively. Programs could touch on aspects such as housing security, environmental sustainability, and youth engagement.
These professionals often conduct research, collect data, and formulate development plans that seek to uplift disadvantaged areas. By attending to specific local needs, community development workers help bridge gaps between citizens and resources that enhance their quality of life. They often facilitate workshops, trainings, or forums for local residents, aimed at promoting empowerment and self-control.
The impact of insurers more considering the support these workers offer is limited only to the tasks outlined. Their work often plants the seeds of change, providing skills and knowledge to community members long after their direct involvement has ended.
You can interact important parts of society, gain insights into pressing issues, and inspire people to take control of their future through such engagements. The contributions made extend beyond the workplace and foster a lifelong mindset of civics and responsibility.
Careers in Public Service
Careers in public service play a vital role in maintaining the safety, health, and welfare of communities. These jobs often involve working directly with individuals facing crises or emergency situations. Professionals in this field serve not just their immediate communities but contribute to the fabric of society by protecting and serving others.
The importance of public service careers can be broken down into several key elements:
- Crisis Response: Jobs like emergency responders and firefighters are on the front lines during emergencies. They provide essential services during critical situations, which can save lives. Their training allows them to react swiftly and effectively.
- Community Safety and Order: Police officers are tasked with maintaining law and order. Their role in preventing crime and protecting citizens is fundamental to a peaceful society. They foster relationships between law enforcement and the community, promoting trust and cooperation.
- Public Health Management: Public health officials work to improve the health of populations. They manage vital health initiatives, educate the public, and respond to health crises. Their work during pandemics or other health emergencies is particularly significant.
Each public service role brings its own challenges and rewards. These careers, while demanding, offer individuals a chance to make profound impacts in their communities.
Emergency Responders and Firefighters
Emergency responders and firefighters form an essential aspect of public service careers. They are notably the first to arrive on the scenes of accidents, natural disasters, or fire emergencies. These professionals face unpredictable and high-pressure situations daily. Understanding their dedication is key to appreciating the impact of these roles.
Emergency responders often possess a unique skill set that includes medical training, crisis management, and mental resilience. Their ability to remain calm under pressure is crucial for effective action. They attend diverse situations, such as medical emergencies, vehicle accidents, and confrontations with hazardous materials.
Being in these positions can lead to personal risks. Firefighters, for example, expose themselves to flames and toxic environments to protect the public. Such a career demands a great deal of bravery, sacrifice, and teamwork.
Police Officers: Ensuring Safety
Police officers have a multifaceted role in ensuring community safety. They not only enforce laws but also engage in community outreach, crisis de-escalation, and public education. Building relationships with community members is essential for effective policing.
Education plays a significant role in police work. Officers often undergo extensive training that covers the law, community relations, and communication strategies. Their role demands physical fitness and mental sharpness.
Challenging situations frequently arise that call for calm and thoughtful leadership. Not every encounter with the public goes as planned; however, effective police training prepares officers to handle conflicts diplomatically.
Having well-functioning police forces contributes greatly to societal order. This influence not only impacts crime rates but also shapes community perceptions of safety.
Public Health Officials
Public health officials are responsible for safeguarding and improving community health. Their job encompasses research, disease prevention, public education, and outbreak response. These professionals play an integral part in managing public health policies and practices.
Demand for robust public health management has surged due to global health disparities. Officials analyze health data, inform policy, and implement programs to tackle local or global health concerns. Their expertise becomes essential during widespread health emergencies, where quick action can save lives.
Public health careers do require advanced education and usually specialized training. Professionals must also develop soft skills to communicate effectively with the public. This communication is crucial as it can guide community behavior during health crises.
In summary, careers in public service significantly contribute to society's overall health, safety, and stability. For many, working in this sector signifies the alignment of their career with their values, fulfilling a critical need in the community. In pursuing such roles, individuals engage in fulfilling work while participating actively in public well-being.
The Financial Aspect of Helping Jobs
Understanding the financial implications of jobs dedicated to helping people in need is crucial for anyone considering a career in this field. While the motivation to help others is often fueled by passion and desire to make a difference, practical financial considerations cannot be ignored. Economy plays a significant part in sustaining long-term commitment to socially responsible jobs. Realizing a balance between financial stability and altruistic pursuits is essential for anyone who wants to embark on or continue a career that serves the community.
Salary Expectations in Altruistic Fields
In numerous helping professions, salary expectations can vary widely. ** Positions such as social workers and non-profit sector employees often face lower salaries in comparison to corporate roles.** Environment and location are also significant factors that influence earning potential. According to statistics, social workers in metropolitan areas tend to earn 10 to 20 percent more than those in rural regions.
- The average salary for social workers can range from $45,000 to $90,000 depending on specialization and experience.
- Healthcare career paths, such as nursing, usually promise better compensation. Registered Nurses commonly have an earning range of $60,000 to $120,000.
- People pursuing careers in education may start with relatively lower salaries, around $40,000, but higher degree qualification may bring substantial increases.
While salaries in altruistic fields might not seem appealing compared to other sectors, many individuals feel that the intrinsic rewards outweigh financial limitations. Personal fulfillment and making a difference are significant factors that influence their career choices.
Funding and Grants for Nonprofits


Navigating the financing landscape of nonprofit organizations is a challenge but very necessary. Most nonprofits rely on funding from donations, grants, and government support. Understanding grant application processes and effective fundraising strategies can prove essential. Organizations such as the Corporation for National and Community Service provide many federal grants aimed at encouraging community service.
- Nonprofits can apply for specific grants which usually require detailed proposals suggesting how funds will be utilized to meet community needs.
- Building partnerships with local businesses can also open avenues for operation financing.
Learning how to manage these funds effectively is reported to enhance nonprofit sustainability. It's imperative for individuals aiming to serve in this sector to understand these funding mechanisms and apply them systematically.
Exploring Sustainable Career Options
Identifying sustainable career choices in helping jobs requires broader thinking about societal needs. The definition of sustainability goes beyond environmental considerations; it involves looking at the longevity and impact of oneβs career on both personal history and communal welfare. Careers tailored towards social impact often provide unique and flexible opportunities while addressing community gaps.
One suggestion for sustainable jobs in the aiding scene includes:
- Becoming a life coach who can help individuals find purpose, aligning career practices with values.
- Engaging in sustainable community development, offering support for those seeking to build stronger, resilient neighborhoods.
- Innovating within the non-profit field, devising marketing strategies that adopt contemporary techniques while keeping costs moderate.
All these opportunities allow individuals to make meaningful contributions while nurturing their careers. Emphasizing creativity and adaptability in oneβs professional journey ensures durability within their helping profession.
Remember, aligning financial outlook with your career pursuit can lead to richness not only in numbers but also in experiences and fulfillment.
Establishing solid footing in the financial scene of helping jobs enhances the possibility for these roles to flourish. Finding ways to improve financially is merely one part of the puzzle; it's equally vital to commit to positive impact. With thoughtful planning, assisting those in need can be both a rewarding experience and a financially sustainable endeavor.
The Personal Rewards of Helping Others
Helping professions offer rich personal rewards beyond any monetary gain. The discussion around the personal impact of such careers is essential not only for understanding job satisfaction but also for highlighting how these roles affect individuals and communities. Moreover, many people are drawn to helping jobs because of their inherent value in fostering connections and positive change in society. This section provides insights into the critical benefits linked with helping others and the deep sense of fulfillment that arises from these rewarding careers.
Job Satisfaction and Fulfillment
Many who work in helping professions experience significant job satisfaction. This aspect often stems from witnessing the effects of their efforts firsthand. The knowledge that one is making a real difference in people's lives can lead to a profound sense of accomplishment. When individuals help others, they gain valuable insights into various societal issues. Knowing they contribute to bringing about positive changes often outweighs financial incentives.
Different helping roles can yield different levels of satisfaction. Health professionals often experience fulfillment by improving patient well-being. Social workers may find joy in advocating for marginalized communities. Teachers feel fulfilled when shaping young minds.
Key Points:
- Meaningful Impact: Direct involvement in other people's lives often leads to a strong sense of purpose.
- Community Engagement: These careers foster a connection to the broader fabric of society.
Fostering Community Connections
Jobs that focus on helping others naturally lead to deeper connections with the community. Many individuals find solace and enrichment in interacting with diverse groups of people. These roles facilitate collaboration between various community members and organizations.
By participating in community-focused efforts, professionals create networks that empower individuals and build a sense of belonging. Each interaction can break down isolation or build a support system, strengthening social fabric on a more significant scale. Additionally, fostering these connections often leads to increased resilience within communities in the face of adversity.
Important Outcomes:
- Support Networks: Helps establish strong ties within the community for collective support.
- Civic Engagement: Encourages individuals to get involved, helping to build a vibrant civil life.
Impact on Mental Health and Well-being
Numerous studies show helping others can boost one's own mental health. Engaging in altruistic acts can reduce feelings of isolation and emotional burdens. Many professionals in helping careers often mention how their work aids in maintaining their mental well-being.
Collaboration and engagement in community-oriented jobs result in mutual support systems. This cycle generates positive feedback, nurturing both the helpers and those being helped. Reducing stress and combating burnout becomes easier when the rewards of connection and fulfillment similarly return to the helper.
Benefits:
- Emotional Resilience: Strengthens personal coping strategies.
- Decreased Stress: Finds reduced anxiety through volunteerism and community engagement.
βThe greatest reward of helping others is the positive ripple effect it creates β for both the giver and the receiver.β
Overall, dedicating oneself to socially responsible careers offers a myriad of personal rewards. The gratification of seeing the impact made in peoples lives creates a cycle of positivity that enriches os individuals and society at large.
Closure: Aligning Passion with Purpose
Understanding how to intertwine oneβs personal inclinations with professional endeavors is crucial for those seeking work in helping fields. Aligning passion with purpose is not jus an individual achievement, it creates broader social impact. This last section reflects on the significance of finding fulfillment through work that benefits others, which can boost overall job satisifaction and lead to higher productivity levels.
Finding Your Niche in Helping Professions
Finding the right niche in helping professions can significantly enhance your career journey. First, it is important to assess your interests and skills. Whether it's direct service, community outreach, or administrative roles, each path contributes differently to society. Consider the following aspects:
- Self-assessment: Identify what you are truly passionate about and how you want to help others.
- Research: Explore various jobs in social services, healthcare, or education. Understanding specific needs of each field helps narrow down options.
- Networking: Engage with veterans in the field to highlight the real tasks and challenges. They can provide great advice on navigating this landscape.
- Quality Education: Many helping roles require special qualifications and certifications. Look for programs that align with your selected niche.
Building a career can be a journey of discovery. Identify your skills, needs in the community, and the organizations that resonate with your values.
Future Trends in Socially Responsible Careers
As societies continuously evolve, so do the nature and requirements of helping professions. Keeping an eye on emergent trends enables professionals to stay relevant and effectively serve communities. Key trends to watch include:
- Technology Integration: Jobs are adapting to new technologies. Virtual care or online mental health resources are increasingly common in healthcare.
- Sustainability: There is more focus on environmentally sustainable practices in nonprofit work and community development.
- Flexible Work Schedule: Remote and hybrid work models are likely to remain popular. This caters not only to employee satisfaction but also enables nonprofits to reach broader audiences.
- Emphasis on Inclusion: Roles that focus on diverse communities are increasing. Careers focusing on marginalized groups promote equity in service provision.
Understanding these trends is vital. They help shape future career choices for professionals eager to make lasting change. Keeping informed and adapting accordingly can ensure that your passion for helping others aligns well with necessary skills and economic demands.
Finding your purpose in work is not merely a career choice. It's about creating a lasting impact on the world around you.