“If you find faults with our country, make it a better one. If you’re disappointed with the mistakes of government, join its ranks, and work to correct them. Enlist in our armed forces, become a teacher, enter the ministry, run for public office, feed a hungry child, teach an illiterate adult to read. Comfort the afflicted, defend the rights of the oppressed. Our country will be the better, and you will be the happier. Because nothing brings greater happiness in life than to serve a cause greater than yourself.” – John McCain; September 4, 2008

You know who does all that? Who comforts the afflicted? And helps those who need it?

Community organizers.

Speaking of which, take a moment to look at the volunteer opportunities at Chicago Cares. Whether you can donate just a few hours or a few months, whether you want to help children or the elderly, whether you can help in the evenings or weekends, the people in your community could use your help. Don’t worry about the organizing: They’ve already got a handle on that part.