Non-profit professionals are always working selflessly to make the world we live in now a better place. But, have you ever thought about the legacy of community activism you will leave behind for the next generation? In honor of World Humanitarian Day, we give you this list from CTK's inspiring Director of Operations, Alison Urban. We hope it helps you clarify and focus your efforts.

5 Ways to Make a Difference Beyond Your Lifetime

1. Focus on your strengths. Find out what you are best at and the types of people you most enjoy working with. If you are passionate about your job (or volunteer work), you are bound to have a more lasting impact.
2. Break down barriers. Respect and learn from those who are different from you. You may be able to work with them to accomplish bigger things than either of you could do separately.
3. Find a mentor and be a mentor. Let the example of someone else and their accomplishments motivate you.Then, be that person for someone else.
4. Keep doors open. Maybe the timing just wasn’t right. View projects that didn’t go as planned as future opportunities for you or for someone else.
5. Educate and inform. Many individuals and organizations out there do good work, but don’t make that all you do. Make others aware of what you and your organization are doing now, and also what the needs might be down the road.