If you’re trying to save money, social activities like brunch or drinks can derail your efforts since they tend to be expensive. Switching a costly activity for volunteering is also a great way to make sure you regularly see your friends and do some good.


You may have to work a little to convince your friends that volunteering together is a solid alternative to the default eating out or grabbing drinks. Try suggesting it first to friends who you know are interested in volunteering or the cause. For example, I recently told a new friend about how I planned to start volunteering at the SPCA and she joined me for the training session. Now, we’ll have a weekly time we see each other and it won’t cost either of us a dime.

12 Painless Money-Saving Swaps to Make This Month | The Financial Diet