Turn off your computer, shut down social media for a day, and roll up your sleeves to help out the less fortunate in your community. The Holidays always present a particularly challenging time for individuals and families in search of their next warm meal, as well as our furry four legged friends.
As you continue to visit the jammed packed malls to cross off items on your holiday shopping list, remember those who are in desperate need of your time and generosity, but may not be able to ask for your help.
Volunteerism can benefit your career, as well. It tends to provide us with perspective of just how fortunate many of us are to have a job during the holidays. If you’re unhappy at work, volunteering time outside the office could give new meaning and appreciation for your career, and perhaps someday turn into new job opportunity. Give it a try, you won’t regret helping others.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Help The Homeless
Warm homes and family gatherings are commonplace during the holidays, but not for the homeless, who are left feeling particularly isolated. Organizations like The National Coalition for the Homeless offers several ways for volunteers to help end homelessness by serving food at shelters, building homes, or offering job training. Check out this extensive list of ways you can get involved this year.
Sponsor A Family
Putting a hot meal on the table for a family that doesn’t have the means to do so. Locate your local Soup Kitchens at Feeding America.
Deliver A Meal
Share a meal with a lonely person in need this holiday season by signing up to volunteer for Meals on Wheels’ food-delivery program.
Volunteer For Vets
Find out ways you can thank veterans who put their lives on the line for our freedom by visiting the Department of Veteran Affairs.
Spend time with Senior Citizens
Sometimes seniors just want someone to chat with. In fact, more than 60% of senior citizens in nursing homes don’t ever have visitors, according to this Buzzfeed article. Bring a sense of companionship and family to someone who doesn’t have one, when you locate a senior center in need here.
Four-Legged Puppy Love
Who doesn’t love puppies? Unfortunately millions of displaced puppies are looking to find their forever home, too during the holidays. Find an animal shelter that needs your help on the ASPCA’s national site.
UnitedWay
Not sure what to give to charity this year? UnitedWay helps you figure out dozens of ways to volunteer your time at community events, schools, businesses and more. Search open volunteer opportunities in your area here.
THE GIFT OF GIVING
The Salvation Army
Each holiday season, the Salvation Army elevates their fundraising efforts to help provide critical support to homeless individuals, elderly, and displaced families from under-served populations. Find out how dozens of ways to give this holiday season by offering help to those in need.
Toys for Tots
Marine Toys for Tots Foundation collects gifts for children who come from economically disadvantaged families. If you can’t locate a drop-off center near you, consider asking your company to host their own. Find out how you can get involved here.