Now that the Holidays are over, it’s good to do things for others instead of yourself. You’ve spoiled yourself with all that food and all those gifts that now you feel like you want to lend a hand around your community. Here are some suggestions to do just that!
1. Giving to your local shelter. This is a practice that we chose to do a lot in my household. Whenever one of my family members receives a gift they know they won’t use, we store it in a bin until we make a trip to one of our local shelters. We choose to do this especially when we receive clothes that don’t fit or that we simply don’t wish to keep. Instead of returning them and getting your money back to buy something else that you don’t necessarily need, keep them until you have enough to make a trip to a charity organization. These places are always looking for anything you may wish to give them and are always searching for new supplies to giveaway to the less fortunate. This doesn’t only apply to clothes as simply donating toothbrushes, hairbrushes, soaps, water bottles and many other objects that you think someone may need are just as good and appreciated (they must all be new and unused objects). All of the items listed can be purchased at dollar stores and don’t need to break the bank! It’s a very simple gesture that can mean a lot.
2. Frozen food left overs to local soup–kitchens. Why not take all that left-over food that you’ve prepared and frozen to those that have nothing to eat? You know that you won’t end up eating the majority of it as you’ll throw the rest of it out since you just have too much. Soup-kitchens are always looking out for food donations and will gladly accept almost any dishes. Everyone should have a chance at eating good holiday food!
3. Volunteer. This is an activity that will always make you feel good inside afterwards as you’ve been able to lend a hand. There are always charities and organizations in need of an extra pair of hands over the holidays or slightly after. Find one that you enjoy working for and see others around you smile. There’s no better gift! Volunteer work can be accomplished in any domain so there’s definitely something out there that you will enjoy doing while helping out. This way, you also get to try new things and gain life experience.
4. Go see your grandparents. If you haven’t seen them over the holidays already, go take the time to go see them. Chat with them over a cup of tea or coffee. Too many people forget about them due to their busy lives and they get lonely. Especially if they’re in a nursing home by themselves. You would for sure fill their day with joy by paying them a visit. They’re very important members of your family.
5. Join a university charity program. These are one in a lifetime experiences that allow you to travel the world to go help people who need it the most. Not only is it great to explore and travel but you will also be able to lend a hand where it will never be forgotten. The University of Guelph offers many of these opportunities, ranging from a week or even a month or two. A sample list can be found here but many other options are available: https://www.recruitguelph.ca/cecs/opportunities-volunteer-paid-work-abroad
6. Join a volunteering club/association. There are countless clubs and associations at the University of Guelph and many of them focus on work in the community. These clubs can enrich you as a person and help you gain valuable experience and life lessons. See what’s out there and meet new friends!