So much talk about Christmas decorations raining over Thanksgiving’s parade, but such little talk about what Thanksgiving should be about. Sure, a golden-brown turkey and bottomless mac 'n' cheese translate to full bellies and happy faces. But what about those in need? What about those who don’t have the necessary resources to enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner?
This Thanksgiving, I encourage you to unveil the true beauty of the holiday season by giving back to your community. Engage in volunteering efforts and acts of kindness this and every Thanksgiving, and I guarantee the brown-sugar crystals on your pecan pie will taste a great deal of a lot sweeter.
1.Donate your gently used clothes
For years, Goodwill has provided disadvantaged people (and hipsters) with clothes; however, Goodwill sells donated items at a discounted price. To ensure beneficiaries do not pay for your donations, opt for nonprofit organizations like adoption centers, churches, mission groups, and drives for veterans. Organizations like Dress for Success, for instance, dedicate their efforts to providing disadvantaged women with professional attire for career development. Host a suit drive at your school and donate items to your nearest local affiliate. If you'd rather donate men's clothing, check out Career Gear. Remember, only donate items in good condition!Bonus: As if the feel-good sentiment of giving weren’t enough, here’s an additional incentive: By law, many donation efforts are eligible for tax deductions!
2.Collect canned goods and donate to your local food bank
Encourage friends, family, and colleagues to participate in a food drive. Organizations like Second Harvest Food Bank provide all the materials necessary to successfully host a food drive; they even drop off drive materials and pick up donations! All you have to do is collect nonperishable items and canned goods. Visit the site and familiarize yourself with some of the most needed items.3.Create a care package
Nothing says "Thank you!" better than a well-put-together care package. Philanthropic initiatives like Alpha Omicron Pi's annual Sisters for Soldiers event collects goods and toiletries for our troops overseas. Show our soldiers some love and gratitude by donating care package-worthy items to the sisters of Alpha-O, or create and send your own package to the U.S. Armed Forces. Soldiers can get sappy too; include a postcard or sweet note expressing your appreciation. A few words of encouragement go a long way!
4.Volunteer at your local hospital or nursing home
Hospitals are always in need of volunteers. Simply visit your local hospital and offer to help out. As college students, we often tend to disregard the elders in our community. Change things up this year and volunteer a couple of hours of your day at your local nursing home. Take a sweat treat and receptive ears and sit down with a senior citizen, ask them questions about their younger years and be enlightened with their untold stories.
