How to Make Money Helping Others

These smart women have discovered surprising ways to turn their generous natures into cash. Learn their secrets so you can start earning too!

“I earn $20,000 a year working 15 hours a week!”

“I was working as a graphic artist, but when my parents got sick, I needed to take care of them. Not only was it challenging to bring them to doctors and care for their health needs, but I also had to learn about things like long-term care insurance and financial and estate planning. When I realized there were other families who needed the same type of information and could use support, I created Grand Family Planning.

“Although I had no background working with caregivers, since I had learned a lot from my own experience, I knew I could help others by providing information and guidance on planning for, navigating through, and surviving as a caregiver of a loved one.

“When I meet with a potential client, I analyze their needs. Then I speak with lawyers and accountants and provide the client with a report that gives them ideas for solutions. They may need a power of attorney, a care plan or a trained and vetted caregiver, for example. I help them determine what to do and what’s a priority.

“In addition to working one-on-one with clients, companies also hire me to educate their employees who are caregivers, and I teach classes at a local community college that has a program for students age 55 and up. I also market my services on social media and my email list.

“I love running my business because I get to provide families with information they can’t get anywhere else. It’s rewarding to offer solutions that help people who feel stuck and overwhelmed. I work 15 hours a week and make $20,000 a year—money that pays the bills and goes back into the business.”

“I make $150 an hour helping people de-stress.”

“Fifteen years ago, when I moved to California, people I met were encouraging me to take yoga and meditation. At that time, I was working in a high-stress job and they thought it would help me cope better. I took classes and tried many types of practices, but I could never turn off my mind and fully relax.

“Then, five years ago, I was searching for something to help me reconnect with myself and de-stress. A friend told me about breath work, a type of meditation that includes simple techniques to help you become aware of your breathing and feel calm. After the first class, I was hooked—I felt more relaxed, confident and free for days afterward. I was so excited that I wanted to spread the word, so three years ago, I became a breath work coach.

“To launch my business, I completed an online course on mindfulness awareness, as well as a two-day training with my breath work teacher, which cost about $200. Although it wasn’t necessary, it helped me learn how to work with clients. I created a website using Wix, a free service where you can design a website, and I found my first clients through word of mouth.

“Now I work with busy, stressed out people one-on-one or as a group, in-person or on Zoom, a free videoconference platform. My clients are located locally and throughout the US. I market the business with my blog, podcasts and social media. Each session lasts about an hour, and I charge $150.

“I love that breath work is so simple, but it makes such a huge difference in someone’s life. The money I make doing this pays the bills, goes back into the business and pays for extras like my daughter’s summer camp.”

“I earn $400 a week caring for a senior citizen!”

“When I was working at a convenience store, my neighbor had a stroke and went blind in one eye. A local church organization that was helping her asked if I could volunteer to help with bathing, laundry and meals, and I agreed. After a few months, it was clear that the woman needed more care, so the organization contacted SYNERGY HomeCare, but the woman asked if I could be her caregiver. I had taken care of my husband when he was sick, and I was enjoying helping her, so when I found out I could be paid for it, I was thrilled.

“I filled out an application and had blood tests to screen for tuberculosis. The company offered orientation, training, and other resources. I also had to take a test and answer questions about things like how to prevent the spread of infection.

“Once I was hired, I quit my job and started helping my client with cleaning, cooking, and bathing. I also went food shopping and to doctors’ appointments and made sure her home was easy to navigate. After several months, I moved on to working with a new client.

“I enjoy the work, and it makes me feel good that I’m helping someone in need. I work 40 hours a week and make $10 an hour — money that pays for extras like trips to the zoo with my granddaughter or eating out!”