Make Thanksgiving a Celebration of Community

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Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and, yes, delicious meals.

But beyond the customary turkey and stuffing, this holiday also presents a wonderful opportunity to develop a spirit of gratitude and bonding. Go beyond the table this year by embracing what this season is truly about: building and supporting community.

Volunteering

The holidays often offer a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those less fortunate. Assist in ending this struggle by opting to spend some time out of your kitchen and with organizations looking to make a difference. Here are a few ideas of where you can lend a helping hand.

Food-focused nonprofits Many organizations nationwide work hard to provide vital meals to those in need, of which there are, unfortunately, many; a report by Feeding America estimates that more than forty-nine million Americans relied on food assistance from charities in 2022. They are often stretched thin during the holidays and could always use volunteers to organize donations, prepare food, or serve meals. Click here for an online directory of food banks and pantries and soup kitchens you could connect with.

Shelters With over 650,000 people in the United States experiencing homelessness, volunteering at a homeless shelter could be a way to lend your support, especially since these places are oftentimes heavily occupied during colder months. Opportunities may include meal preparation, clothing organization, or administrative tasks.

Senior centers Many elders spend the holidays alone, leading to potential feelings of isolation. Consider reaching out to a local senior center to see about providing socialization for those without family. Whether you engage in activities, play games, or simply have conversations, such engagement can work wonders for their physical and mental health.

Animal shelters Shelters are the backbone of animal welfare in our communities—they provide a haven for lost, abandoned, and surrendered animals, offering them food, medical care, and a chance at finding a loving forever home. Helping out at one is a fantastic way to give back since they often rely heavily on volunteers to manage the day-to-day tasks that keep the facility running smoothly. And, as a bonus, you get to spend time with some precious animals!

If you need ideas on where to start when it comes to volunteering, there are countless organizations that could make use of your skills … Read More