November is truly the month of gratitude. This year, let your community know how grateful you are for the people who make it your home by giving back in these seven impacting ways.
There is nothing quite like Thanksgiving. Gathering around with friends and family as we share a meal and give thanks for one another brings out the best in each and every one of us. This holiday season, there are ways that you can give back to your community so that others have the opportunity to feel as fortunate as you are. Here are seven ways to do just that.
1.Run for a Reason
Okay, by run, I mean you can run, but you can also walk, or prance, or even dance your way out there for a good cause. So many “Turkey Trots” or “Gobble Wobbles” take place on or around Thanksgiving and support local charities. If your community doesn’t have one, start organizing for next year’s now! They’re a great way to get yourself moving, get your community moving, and support those in need all at once.
2. Give the Gift of Time
Especially right now, seniors are in need of company. Though keeping them company in person isn’t necessarily an option, you can offer your compassion and listening ears via video-messaging. Get in touch with your local senior community to see what infrastructure is already in place, and if none exists yet, here is your opportunity to establish a volunteering network. There really is no better gift than the gift of friendship, after all.
3. Make Some Meals
This year has taken a particular toll on essential workers, specifically EMTs, nurses, doctors, teachers, and emergency personnel. While teachers will be spending much-earned days off over Thanksgiving, the other essential workers will not. Take to the kitchen and make the meal you would for your family. Instead of just sharing it with them, though, make enough for your family within the community. These men and women work day in and day out to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy, so let them know you are grateful for them by dropping off a warm, home cooked meal.
4. Turn up the Lights on Black Friday
There is nothing quite like decorating your Christmas tree after Thanksgiving. Who doesn’t love trees? One special tree that starts peaking out around Thanksgiving is called an Angel Tree, and odds are, your community has more than one. Angels Trees are a wonderful way to give back anonymously. You get the opportunity to be an angel for a family in your community who has fallen on hard times. Sometimes, it’s a family who is need of clothing; other times, it’s a few little ones who need essentials but also want fun toys. After stuffing yourself with some turkey, get out there and stuff some kids’ stockings with joy. Food and love abounding!
5. Toy and Clothing Drives
As you give thanks for what you have, take the time to determine what you do not actually need anymore. Decluttering your space is good for your mind, body, and soul. It is also amazing for your community. Not only can you save some space in your closets and toy chests, you can also help families in need during the holiday season. Your well loved donations could be what a family is most thankful for this year.
6. Pets for Pets
With Christmas right around the corner, there will be a surge of pets taken from the animal shelters. For now, though, those furry friends would feel so much gratitude if you donated your time. Shelters can always use a helping hand, especially during the Thanksgiving season, and bonus! you’d get to spend the day with cute kittens and playful pups. Everyone wins!
7. Volunteer
Doing good makes us feel good. After eating with family and vegging out (because let’s face it, this year has been a tough one for everyone, and slowing down and enjoying the time you have with your loved ones is so, so important), get out there and help wherever it is that you are needed. Maybe there is a soup kitchen or coat drive going on in your community. Perhaps there is a canned food drive that needs manning. Whatever it is that your community needs, answer the call this year. You’ll be happy you did.
Thanksgiving is that one day a year where we have an excuse to slow down and take stock of what we have. After giving thanks for your own good fortune, get out there and make others’ lives just as bright as your own.
