For many people, the holiday season is filled with good times with family and friends, lots of food and gifts galore. But not everyone will be with family, or have a large feast this year. If you are one of the family’s fortunate enough to have the time and resources to be able to give back, we encourage you to do so. Whether your donation looks like time spent at a local food bank, or a monetary amount gifted to a local charity, every bit helps. There are a lot of worthy causes out there, nationally and locally. We have complied a list of places to look into if you are interested in paying it forward this holiday season:
United Way—this site will match you with local initiatives and organizations who need an extra hand with their programs https://www.unitedway.org/get-involved/volunteer
One Warm Coat—this non-profit believes every person should have one warm coat to get them through the winter. You can donate coats, sponsor a coat drive in your community, or donate monetary funds. To learn more go to https://www.onewarmcoat.org/
Local Food Bank—food banks usually have an influx of donations during the holiday season and could use extra volunteers to help sort donations. You can also host a food drive in your area to collect donations for those in need.
UNICEF—this organization helps children in struggling communities worldwide. This site will match you to their local and international programs and explain how to get involved https://www.unicefusa.org/supporters/volunteers
The Humane Society of the United States—this site will match you to your local humane society for any volunteer opportunities they may have http://www.humanesociety.org/community/volunteers/?referrer=https://www.google.com/
Pack For A Purpose—if you are traveling this holiday season, Pack For A Purpose may be for you. While packing for your trip, leave a small amount of space for a bag of supplies needed for initiatives all over the world. With focuses on education, socioeconomic development and healthcare this organization helps communities to grow and succeed. To learn more visit: https://www.packforapurpose.org/
The Red Cross—with so many people around the world needing assistance from the Red Cross, they are always looking for volunteers. This site will match you to your local program and outline how you can help locally and nationally http://www.redcross.org/volunteer/become-a-volunteer#step1
There are many local organizations in your community who would appreciate your time or monetary donations to help further their cause. We encourage you to reach out to them and give something back.