Thanksgiving is the time of year to give thanks for our many blessings. We often forget to be thankful as we go about our hectic day-to-day lives, but it is important we take time to give back to our community. Many who are less fortunate do not have families to be with during the holidays or a Thanksgiving feast to enjoy. Here are some ways you can lead with an attitude of gratitude, which will not only aid the community, but make you feel good too.
Volunteer at a soup kitchen or shelter
Volunteers are not always needed just to serve food. Find out from kitchen or shelter staff if they need assistance planning for and preparing the meals or cleaning up afterward. Also, there are organizations like Meals on Wheels that will deliver food to clients on Thanksgiving Day so that they can enjoy a nice meal in their own home.
Help out at a local food bank
Whether you’re helping separate or sort food products, checking expiration dates, or throwing out damaged items, volunteering at a food bank can make a huge difference to the hungry in your community. Make it a team-building activity for your office or go with family and friends. Check out Feeding America for local food banks in your area.
Visit a nursing home
Residents of nursing homes are not always fortunate enough to have family members who visit them. This can be especially difficult during the holiday season. Take time out on Thanksgiving Day to pay them a special visit; even an hour of your time can make all the difference to them. You can also call ahead of time and find out from staff if a Thanksgiving meal is being planned and if so, what you can bring to ensure residents have a nice celebration.
Invite a friend
Do you have a friend or colleague without Thanksgiving Day plans? Invite them over to spend the holiday with you and you may just make their day. It may seem like a small gesture to you but not having to spend the holiday alone could really mean the world to them.
