There’s no question—we’ve all been challenged in many ways this year. But despite the adversity, there are many things to be thankful for. As we head into the holiday season, let’s challenge ourselves to spread a little cheer to those who need it most. We think about giving as something monetary, but it doesn’t always have to be. Sometimes a helping hand, the gift of your time, and willingness to reach out are all it takes to make a difference.
Ways to Give Back During the Holidays
The festive season is a joyful time, but many people, families, and children won’t have that experience. Families, in particular, can be challenged to give their kids what they need—never mind what they want. Clothing, toys, books, and food are things we take for granted, but you can make a difference.
Many organizations in the Nashville area are dedicated to helping kids and families—and not just during the holidays. These non-profits are committed to making lives better every day, and they make it easy for you to get involved:
Hands On Nashville connects people and businesses with volunteer opportunities throughout the region. They work with more than 200 non-profit and community organizations that need your help.
Second Harvest Food Bank not only provides food to people but they are also working toward finding solutions to hunger. You can donate time, money, or food, and it all goes exactly where it’s needed.
Room in the Inn helps to put rooves over people’s heads, finding transitional or permanent housing for Nashville’s unhoused within their network of 200 local congregations. They need volunteers and financial support and accept donations of everyday items that can be put to immediate use.
The Store is a free grocery store founded by Kimberley and Brad Paisley. They work with agencies and others to solve food insecurity for seniors, families, and individuals, but they can’t do it alone. Volunteer hours are paid as wages that go back into the program. They also accept group volunteers so you can maximize the good you do. What a great team-building idea!
These are just a few ideas, but we hope they inspire you to seek a cause that speaks to your heart.
Ways to Donate
It’s not unusual for people to think, “Hey, I’m just one person. How much good can I possibly do?” Feeling like your contribution is just a drop in the bucket is a bit overwhelming, but there are ways to extend your donations and maximize the benefits.
Once you’ve chosen a cause, mobilize your employees to join in. Set a period of time when the campaign will run and have everyone canvas for and collect donations of toys, food, goods, or money. Tell your customers what you’re doing and encourage them to donate too. Doing the work together is a great way to spread the cheer, and it feels so good to know you’re making lives better.
Here at Green Hills Office Suites, we choose Toys for Tots. We’ve been supporting them for several years, and we’re always so thrilled to be able to bring hundreds of new toys to kids that would not otherwise have them during the holidays.
Need office support while you’re volunteering? Don’t forget that the team at Green Hills Office Suites is here to help. Reach out today; we’d love to be a part of your success story.
