What can one person do, anyway?

A fair question. After all, sometimes it feels like we live in a world where a single voice, dollar, or vote doesn’t count for much.

Which is exactly why you might want to check out the Ocean Park Community Center.

There an individual can make a world of difference to someone in desperate need of help. It’s a whole network of emergency centers and services: Daybreak Day Center and Shelter, a program that helps mentally ill homeless women; Night Light Youth Outreach Services, a program for runaways; Sojourn Services for battered women and their children; Campion, a family counseling center; the Access Center, a drop-in haven for the homeless and needy; and Turning Point, a transitional housing program.

Feel underqualified? Don’t! There are lots of ways to help out, from organizing clothing drives to preparing meals to gardening therapy (hey, you can do that!). With so many opportunities, you’re just about guaranteed to find a place to lend a hand.

Sure, it takes a village. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make a difference.

For more information, go to opcc.net or call 310-264-6646.