As moms, we strive to create a safe, loving world for our children, but sometimes, the state of things can feel overwhelming. When we’re faced with uncertainty, fear, or frustration about the direction of our country, it’s easy to spiral into despair. However, one of the most powerful ways to combat hopelessness is through action. Taking meaningful steps to support our communities, advocate for positive change, and foster kindness can help us turn hopelessness to hope and despair into purpose. If you’re feeling discouraged, here are some tangible things you can do to channel your feelings into hope through action on the Seacoast.
1. Support Organizations That Align with Your Values
If certain issues weigh heavily on your heart, consider donating to organizations that are actively working to protect human rights, environmental sustainability, or social justice. Even small contributions add up when we come together. If financial donations aren’t possible, many organizations also need volunteers, supplies, or advocacy support.
Local organizations to consider:
- New Hampshire Women’s Foundation (NH) – Supports initiatives that advance gender equality.
- The New England Grassroots Environment Fund (NH) – Helps fund community-based environmental initiatives.
- Preble Street (ME) – Provides services for people experiencing homelessness and hunger.
- Seacoast Outright (NH) – Supports LGBTQ+ youth and their families through advocacy and education.
- Planned Parenthood Exeter (NH) – Provides reproductive healthcare and education.
2. Get Involved Locally
National issues can feel overwhelming, but meaningful change often starts in our own communities. Consider joining a local nonprofit, attending town meetings, or supporting grassroots efforts that reflect your values. Volunteering at food pantries, shelters, or mentorship programs allows you to make a direct and tangible difference.
Local opportunities:
- Gather NH (Portsmouth, NH) – A food pantry dedicated to fighting hunger.
- York Community Service Association (York, ME) – Provides local assistance with food, fuel, and shelter.
- Seacoast Science Center (Rye, NH) – Offers volunteer opportunities to support ocean conservation.
3. Use Your Voice
Reach out to your elected officials — local, state, and national — through emails, phone calls, and letters. Let them know what matters to you and encourage them to represent your values. Engaging in advocacy, signing petitions, and supporting policies that align with your beliefs can amplify your voice in shaping the future.
Find your representatives and their contact information here:
- New Hampshire: Find your state representatives here.
- Maine: Find your state representatives here.
4. Teach and Empower the Next Generation
If you’re worried about the world your children are inheriting, use this as an opportunity to teach them about compassion, resilience, and activism. Read books together (here are some suggestions from a fellow Seacoast Mom and librarian) about inspiring changemakers, talk openly about kindness and justice, and encourage them to take small steps too — like writing thank-you notes to community helpers or participating in local service projects.
Local ways to engage kids:
- Children’s Museum of New Hampshire (Dover, NH) – Offers educational programs on community involvement.
- Center for Wildlife (Cape Neddick, ME) – Teaches kids about environmental conservation through wildlife rescue.
- Visit your Local Library — support Seacoast libraries and get book suggestions from your local librarian!
5. Prioritize Mental and Emotional Well-Being
It’s easy to feel burnt out when the news cycle is particularly heavy. Protect your peace by setting boundaries with media consumption, practicing mindfulness, and surrounding yourself with supportive people. Seek out positive stories, engage in outdoor activities, and remind yourself that joy and activism can coexist.
Great places to recharge in nature:
- Seacoast Nature Walks to Waterfalls — discover some new trails with beautiful water features.
- Seacoast Peaks Your Kids Can Summit — climb a mountain to clear your head.
- Seacoast Sledable Trails — Use the snow as a reason to get outside!
- Follow Seacoast Hikes on Instagram and Facebook — I update this resource so you can be inspired to get outside without fear of the unknown.
6. Build a Like-Minded Community
You’re not alone in your feelings. Connecting with others who share your concerns and values can be incredibly uplifting. Start or join a local group focused on community action, social justice, or mutual aid. Surrounding yourself with people who inspire and energize you can make a big difference in sustaining long-term engagement.
7. Lead with Kindness and Compassion
At the heart of all action is the ability to extend kindness — both to ourselves and others. Small, everyday acts of goodness, like helping a neighbor, supporting a small business, or showing up for a friend in need, create ripples of positive change. Hope grows in the spaces where kindness thrives, and here is a past post about how to prioritize kindness!
Turning Despair Into Purpose
Feeling disheartened is natural, but staying in that place isn’t necessary. By taking action, however small, we shift our energy from despair to empowerment. Our children are watching, and through our resilience and determination, we show them that even in difficult times, there is always something we can do to create a better future. We are the role models to find hope through action on the Seacoast when the world feels heavy.
