The Weekly Theme
Each week, we feature a new theme of solutions for those passionate about learning in-depth on how we are building a better world!
How microgrids play a role in the future of food
In our Optimist View a couple of weeks ago, we discussed the critical changes that have come from previous pandemics. Food system security is an issue that demanded attention before the outbreak of COVID-19 and the virus has only exacerbated the need for real changes in our food Read More...
Sitting a lot? Here’s how to keep your back pain-free
Humans have developed a habit of being overly sedentary, and we’re afraid coronavirus lockdowns aren’t exactly helping. NYC-based Physiotherapist Charlotte Sayers told Greatist that most of her clients are complaining of new low back pains since they’ve started working from home. “Our backs Read More...
Why reopening will look different for every state
States across the US are facing the difficult decision of how and when to reopen society. States like South Carolina and Georgia are moving to reopen businesses this week while others, like California and Washington, are warier of reducing social distancing. Here’s why the post-COVID-19 plan Read More...
You can now volunteer in a meaningful way, without leaving your couch
As the country remains at a social-distancing standstill, not only are vulnerable people in need of essential items, companionship, and care, but many more fortunate individuals are finding themselves with more time on their hands and a feeling that they should be doing more to give back to the Read More...
Tired of virtual meetings? Here’s how to overcome ‘Zoom fatigue’
If you’re anything like us at the Optimist Daily, you’re probably feeling exhausted by virtual meetings. We spoke about it amongst ourselves while on Zoom and decided to look around to see if others were feeling the same. Apparently, we’re not alone. In an article for National Read More...
How animal rescue groups are finding homes for dogs via virtual adoptions
While much of the country is under orders to shelter at home, pet rescue groups across the country have reported skyrocketing interest in adoption and fostering. But considering that in most cities pounds and rescue groups are deemed nonessential businesses, the organizations have had to get Read More...
People will now be able to vote via the mail in New York and Kentucky
As the US ramps up for what is sure to be an unprecedented election season, two states are making it easier for citizens to cast their vote without coming into contact with others: New York and Kentucky. Governors Andrew Cuomo and Andy Beshear both signed executive orders on Friday for Read More...
A revived old custom in Italy is helping those in need during the pandemic
In Italy, where the coronavirus has shuttered more than 2 million businesses and left one in every two workers without income, some Italians are putting a new twist on an old custom to help the needy and restart the economy. In Rome, the Piazza San Giovanni Della Malva used to echo with the noise Read More...
Builders are back on site to rebuild Notre Dame
After a fire engulfed Notre Dame last year, French President Emmanuel Macron vowed to rebuild the 850 year old cathedral within five years. COVID-19 put a slight dent in those plans, but now the workers are back on site this week to continue the effort. The rebuilding challenges have not been Read More...
Coping with loneliness during a pandemic
95 percent of Americans are under shelter in place orders to stop the spread of COVID-19, but the repercussions of loneliness can also be dangerous to our mental wellbeing. Calls to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline are up 300 percent. So how can we cope with loneliness during the pandemic? Read More...