By Carrie Byrne Putelo
Every January, we talk about setting goals that make us healthier, more organized, or more disciplined. But what if one of the most meaningful resolutions we make has nothing to do with improving ourselves and everything to do with showing up for someone else?
This month, I am inviting readers to think about service as a personal reset. Instead of creating a long list of resolutions that fade by February, choose one, three, or even five organizations that genuinely mean something to you and commit to supporting them throughout the year. It does not have to be grand. It just has to be intentional.
Some people give monthly donations. Others volunteer once a season. Some families choose a cause together and make it part of their routine. The point is not how much you do. It is the decision to consistently help an organization whose work matters to you.
Here are a few places across our region where even a small commitment can make a real difference:
Clinton Symphony Orchestra of the Mohawk Valley
The Clinton Symphony Orchestra keeps live classical music thriving in our region, bringing professional musicians, local students, and the community together through meaningful performances. They are currently fundraising for their next concert series, scheduled for Saturday, May 30, 2026 – a series that will include an Education Concert for local elementary students and a special “side-by-side” performance pairing high-school musicians with the orchestra’s professionals. Their Award-winning conductor, Octavio Mas-Arocas is originally from Spain, and now based in Michigan, where he teaches and conducts at the Michigan State University College of Music. Funding is essential to make this concert series possible and to ensure these educational opportunities remain accessible for young musicians throughout the region.
Phone: 315-216-7795
Website: www.clintonsymphonyorchestra.org
Or donate directly through the Donate link on their homepage.
Herkimer Next, Inc.
Next strengthens communities in Herkimer County and beyond by working with local nonprofits, small businesses, municipalities, and grassroots efforts with grant writing, board development, supportive housing, research, planning, and more. If you want to give your time or expertise in a way that uplifts the entire county, this is a meaningful place to begin.
Phone: 315-864-0009
Website: www.herkimercountynext.org
Or donate via the Give link on their homepage
ICAN (Utica)
ICAN supports children, teens, and families through mentoring, trauma-informed programs, and community-based services throughout the Mohawk Valley. Volunteers help with community activities, special events, family care kits, and outreach efforts. Even a small time commitment can make a meaningful difference for local families.
Phone: 315-792-9039
Website: ican.family
Or donate via ican.family/donate
MVCAA Diaper Bank
Diapers remain one of the highest unmet needs for families in crisis. MVCAA’s diaper bank distributes thousands each year and always needs help with sorting, packaging, and small workplace or neighborhood drives. Even one box goes directly to families who need it.
Phone: 315-624-9930
Website: mvcaa.com
Or donate via mvcaa.com/donate
Anita’s Stevens Swan Humane Society
Anita’s Stevens Swan Humane Society
Not everyone can foster or adopt, but there are so many other ways to help. The shelter always needs support with dog walking, enrichment activities, housekeeping, and socialization. Even thirty minutes of your time can make a meaningful difference for a dog waiting for a home — a short walk, some playtime, or simple companionship helps reduce stress and keeps them happier and more connected while they wait for their next chapter. You can also take part in the Paws & Pages Reading Program, a heartwarming opportunity where kind kids ages 6–15 can build literacy skills while providing comfort to shelter pets. Sitting with an animal and reading aloud helps soothe anxious dogs and cats, giving them calm, positive interaction that truly matters.
Phone: 315-738-4357
Website: anitas-sshs.org
Donate: anitas-sshs.org/donate
Utica Zoo
The Zoo welcomes volunteers throughout the year for animal care support in non-contact roles, education programs, grounds projects, and major events. With flexible shifts and clear training, it’s easy to get involved in a way that fits your schedule. You can also support the Zoo through their Adopt-an-Animal program, which directly helps provide daily care, enrichment, and conservation resources for the species you choose.
Phone: 315-738-0472, Ext 42
Website: uticazoo.org
Or donate via uticazoo.org/donate
Where to Begin
Take an evening this month to reflect. What issues feel personal to you? Which organizations have you admired from a distance but never reached out to? Who could use your help on a consistent basis?
Write down a short list. Contact one organization. Set a reminder for next month. The goal is not perfection. The goal is follow-through.
As we step into the new year, I love the idea that service can shape us just as much as we hope to shape the world around us. A small commitment, carried month after month, becomes something meaningful. In a community like ours, where kindness genuinely matters, it might be the most lasting resolution you make all year.
