You know what they say, Christmas is the season of giving. It’s an excellent time to get involved in an organization you’re passionate about, so that you can continue to volunteer and help throughout the year (after all, the need for donations/volunteers does not disappear after the holiday season). Here are some opportunities to give back this Christmas season (and beyond!).
Volunteer at an animal shelter
Volunteering at a local shelter is ideal for all animal lovers out there! Before you go volunteer, be sure to hit up your local pet store to pick up some goodies, such as collars, tennis balls, treats or dog beds. The animals need attention to be socialized, and cleaning is always needed. If you have a passion for furry friends, I recommend this volunteer opportunity!
Bring treats to a nursing home
People in nursing homes can get very lonely during the holiday season, so just going in and talking to them can brighten their day. Going to a memory unit or a place where residents may not have many visitors would also be a great way to give back. Even though they may not know you are there, deep down they appreciate it (and so do the workers!). Whipping up some Christmas cookies and passing them out to nursing home residents would be another great way to spread Christmas cheer!
Give hats and mittens to the homeless
Next time you’re at Target, consider picking up an extra pair of mittens and a winter hat. Then next time you encounter a homeless individual, you can give them the gift of warmth. Although it’s not much, you can still help them feel more cared for this holiday season. If you’re able to, purchasing gift cards to local restaurants would also be a generous gift. Gigi Hadid swears by this, and often asks for gift cards for her birthday, so she can give them out to the homeless people she passes!
Donate clothes
Many people around the U.S. have trouble paying for clothing. An excellent place to donate would be The Pajama Project, where pajamas and books are accepted. Their mission is to give every child the gift of a good night’s sleep. Donating clothes is an easy way to help out your community and purge your overstuffed wardrobe.
Between the holiday parties and festivities, consider volunteering this holiday season. You’ll learn more about yourself and will be a benefit to your local community!
Want to keep up with Her Campus OSU? Make sure to like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, check out our Pinterest board and read our latest Tweets!