All it takes to be an activist is an interest in making things better, and the will to do something about it. Whether it’s joining your community association or volunteering at a homeless shelter, every little bit counts. Here are a few tips from the pros on how you can make a difference.

• Become informed. Read the newspaper and watch the news, but don’t take it all at face value. Get in touch with the people directly involved on issues you care about. They’ll be happy to hear from you.

• Know who your government representatives are: federal, provincial and municipal. “Politicians reflect what people want. Call your MLA and ask them what they’re doing about affordable housing or homelessness, or whatever your issue may be,” Fay Herrick (Schizophrenia Society of Alberta Calgary Chapter).

• Realize there are many ways to contribute. “Donate clothing, money, or your time.” – Fay Herrick.

• Pick something that you can identify with that gets you excited and gets you connected to neighbours along the way, and start doing it.” – Melissa Centofanti.

• “Pick an issue and get involved.” – Gerald Wheatley. Decide to make a difference on issues you care about. In an age of information saturation, the public is better informed than ever about the social, environmental and economic ills we’re facing, and yet voter turnout and volunteerism rates are dropping.

• Broadcast your message. “Write letters to the Herald. Phone in to talk shows on the radio.” – Fay Herrick. Letters, emails, phone calls and politician visits do make a difference. The letters section is the most read section of any newspaper, read not only by citizens, but also by government officials. Letters should be short, direct and well written.

• Get three or four of your friends together to organize before a specific event that you care about. Be creative. Talk to artists: they probably have some wacky ideas. Maybe take a couple of acting classes.” – Melissa Centofanti.

• “Learn to see the vendors on the street as people. If you see a vendor give them a smile and say hi. Make eye contact.” – Paul Drohan.

• When looking for an organization, “Do your research to find a good fit. It’s better to head into something you know is your cup of tea.” – Shirley Marion. There are hundreds of local voluntary organizations ready and willing to help you get involved. A good first place to look is Volunteer Calgary (www.volunteercalgary.ab.ca) and the Calgary Activist Network (http://activist.ca/).