10 Places to Volunteer during the Holiday Season
Winter break is almost around the corner. I know, I hear the moan and groans but we are almost there! Around the holidays not only are people excited to have a break, see their families and open up presents but also to give back to their communities. Helping and volunteering is a big event for most families. If you plan on volunteering anytime during your break, here are some ideas! Underneath are links for the Lexington area just in case you want to spend your time helping out when school is in session.
Helping with the cats and dogs this holiday season can be a fun way to volunteer. Who doesn’t love cute cats and dogs? During the holidays most of the shelters need new toys, beds, and food for the animals. Not only show up and help the staff but also contribute to the cause!
Lexington area: (859) 233-0044
2. Homeless Shelters
Homeless shelters need volunteers more than ever. Not only do they need donations of coats, gloves and other items but they need people to serve them hot meals daily. Helping out a day can really impact their community.
Lexington area: The Hope Center, Catholic Action Center, New Life Day Center
The Salvation Army is known to give resources and food through charity shops and shelters for the unfortunate all around the world. This year not only can be outside ringing a bell for donations outside your local store but you can also volunteer at their local shelters and buildings.
Lexington area: (859) 252-7706
Fun fact: this program is directed by the Marine Forces! This program starts at the beginning of October to December to collect toys for unfortunate kids around the country. Most of these toys are donations from families, church groups and agencies. Not only can you donate but you can also spread the joy by handing these presents out!
Adopting a soldier through the holidays can be a wonderful and sad feeling. Each year when you adopt a soldier, they are usually in a deployed troop. When adopting not only do you get to send weekly letters to get to know the solider but you can send care packages through the holiday. Make them feel better considering they are without their family and you are making them feel honored to serve this country.
6. Meals on Wheels (Deliver a meal)
Packing lunches and dinners to those who cannot do it themselves or go out grocery shopping. Volunteering can make you feel amazing and grateful in certain situations but helping someone out makes them feel 10 times better since they know you and others are caring for them.
Lexington area: (859) 276-5391
7. Visit Senior Citizens: Many senior citizens cannot see their families this holiday season or they cannot leave their living facility. People want to be talked to especially older ones. Get to know them. Know their story and spend time with them this holiday season, they will appreciate it. For all you know, you may create a friendship!
Lexington areas: Lexington Senior Center, (859) 278-6072, http://libertyridge.com or https://www.fivestarseniorliving.com/communities/ky/lexington/lexington-country-place
8. American Red Cross: Donate some blood!
The Red Cross is always seeking volunteers at blood drives and to give blood. There are many volunteer opportunities with the organization with becoming a leader, helping during a country crisis and assist fundraising efforts.
Lexington area: (859) 253-1331
This particular program seeks to restore faith and religion to ones who were or are affected by victims, prisoners, and crime. Angel Tree is also connected with the Salvation Army. In your local grocery stores, they will give you an option to receive an "angel" which is usually a kid. Most items include food, clothing, and toys. This will secure a holiday for an unfortunate family.
Visting a local hospital during the holidays can bring a smile on patient's faces. Letting them not think about being sick for a few minutes can do wonders. Bring them a present, talk to them or even play with them if they are a kid.
