Find Meaningful Ways for Giving Back for Thanksgiving

By Andrew Hickey on Nov 16, 2023 @ 11:42 AM

Give thanks by helping others in need this Thanksgiving!

You may be wondering: how can I make a difference in my community this Thanksgiving? That is a great question!

Thanksgiving is a great time to pay it forward and give back to your community. You and your family have tons of opportunities to get involved. From food banks to national organizations, there is always a need for volunteers.

You can make Thanksgiving special for families in need and those who don't have a place to celebrate the holiday. Be sure to spread the love and recruit your family, friends, and neighbors to come along.

We're calling it Operation Giving Back Thanksgiving. Now that we have the mission let's go over how we can get started.

What is Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving is so much more than a day to enjoy a delicious holiday meal with family and friends. It's a time to pause and reflect on and be thankful for all the blessings we have. And it’s a reminder to lend a hand to those less fortunate and assemble as a community, like superheroes.

Why is giving back important?

No matter how much we have, helping those in need makes a big difference. It helps to build a stronger community and is a great way to gain new understanding.

From a personal perspective, being a volunteer provides a deep sense of purpose. It's easy to get busy with our own lives. Volunteering time or donating resources helps show us a larger picture. It's also a great way to meet new people while engaging in meaningful activities.

From a professional standpoint, charitable activities look good on a resume. And they show employers that you are compassionate and caring.

Choosing the right kind of giving

With organizations in need of volunteers it may be hard to figure out where you are able to make the most impact.

At the end of the day, the important thing is that your donation is something you feel passionate about. You can support a smaller organization working on more focused solutions in your area. There could also be a large organization creating lasting change globally.

When searching for community service ideas take some time to do your research. See what organizations align with your values and beliefs. Are they providing real solutions? Do their initiatives resonate with you?

It’s essential to find an organization that you feel connected to. You could feel overwhelmed by the number of organizations. So, try looking over the information in more manageable pieces. Any type of giving you choose, always remember that your impact matters!

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Donating money

Many people experience heightened financial strain during the holiday season. Charitable donations include essential resources for food, shelter, and other necessities.

By contributing financially, you can support organizations that address poverty and hunger. Here are two ways to donate monetarily to those in need:

Partnering with local businesses: Local grocery stores, bakeries and restaurants often gather surplus food items. Your donation will help cover the cost of collecting and transporting items to the designated recipients.
Contributing to organizations: Some organizations use donations to buy much-needed items and cover operational costs. Check with the organization to see if they accept financial contributions.

Donating food

The smallest acts make a positive impact. It also gives families the chance to create a meaningful new Thanksgiving tradition. Here are some options:

Local food bank or food pantry: Contact local food banks or pantries to ask about their specific needs and donation guidelines. They often accept non-perishable items like canned goods, rice, and pasta. They also may need extra hands to arrange care packages. Start by searching organizations such as Ample Harvest and Feeding America.
Community organizations: Reach out to shelters, churches, and other organizations. They typically organize Thanksgiving events or meals for those in need.
Coordinate a food drive: If you’re feeling enterprising organize a food drive in your community, workplace or a school. This involves setting up collection points and encouraging people to donate non-perishable food items. It’s important to communicate the types of items needed and the deadline to make donations.

It's important to be aware of any local regulations or guidelines. Some organizations may have requirements for accepting certain types of food.

Volunteering

Volunteering your time during the Thanksgiving holiday is a wonderful way to give back to your community. Start with these suggestions:

Local charities, nonprofits, and community centers: Find a food bank, soup kitchen or community center that organizes special Thanksgiving events. They may need volunteers to help with tasks like serving meals, managing activities, or assisting in food drives.
Online volunteering: Explore online volunteer platforms that connect people with opportunities. Websites like VolunteerMatch and Idealist allow you to search for Thanksgiving-specific volunteer opportunities.
Meals on Wheels: Meals on Wheels and similar programs deliver meals to seniors or individuals who may be unable to attend community events. Thanksgiving is a critical time for these services.
Reach out to local businesses: Restaurants and catering services can be involved in preparing and serving meals during Thanksgiving. They may need extra hands.

Volunteer opportunities during Thanksgiving are popular. So, inquire about opportunities well in advance. You may be required to attend training sessions or orientation first.

Finally, remember to consider your skills, interests, and the time you can commit. These points are key when choosing a volunteering opportunity.

Tutoring

Volunteering as a tutor is a meaningful way to give back during Thanksgiving. Here's how you to go about it:

Local schools and libraries: They may have programs in place or be open to volunteers to offer academic support.
Community centers: Check with local centers or after-school programs that welcome volunteer tutors. These organizations often appreciate additional help, especially during holiday seasons.
Nonprofit organizations: Many nonprofits focus on educational support for underserved communities. Research organizations in your area that align with your interests.
Advertise locally: If you have expertise in a specific subject, consider advertising your tutoring services. Post flyers at community centers, libraries, or schools to let people know about your willingness to help. Remember to consider the age group and subjects you feel comfortable tutoring.

We hope this information helps you find an opportunity that aligns with you and your family. Thank you for reading and helping your community.

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