Now that fall is here, it’s time to start thinking about the new community service opportunities that come with the change of seasons. Homeless shelters are preparing for upcoming cold weather. Food banks are stocking up to help hungry individuals and families during the holidays. Local charities are holding the last of the walk-a-thons to raise funds for their projects. It’s a great time to do something meaningful for others. Here are a few fairly simple ideas you and/or your council might want to check out:
With the weather changing it’s a great time to clean out your closets and give those gently used items you’ll never wear again to area homeless shelters or thrift shops. You have to clean out your closets anyway, right?
Gather your fellow members together to collect combs, toothbrushes, shampoo, razors, etc. to make “I Care” kits for homeless individuals and donate them to your local homeless shelter. Fall and winter are crucial times for shelters, so you might want to check with them first to find out their most-needed items.
Take underprivileged kids trick-or-treating. Many children’s homes have so many kids it’s difficult to take them all out trick-or-or treating at once, so they ask volunteers to help out. You’ll be doing something great for the community, making a kid’s night safe and fun, and all that walking is ideal for burning off candy corn.
Speaking of exercise, fall is an excellent time to participate in runs/walks for causes. Get fit while raising awareness – and funds – to support worthwhile causes like disease research, children’s programs, veteran’s support and more.
October is the perfect time to start working on Thanksgiving food drives for hungry individuals and families. Team up with a local homeless shelter or soup kitchen to determine their needs for the holiday and how you can help. While you’re at it, start recruiting your council members, family and friends to volunteer to serve food on Thanksgiving Day.
The potential for volunteer opportunities is endless, and as you can see, you can put as much or as little time into it as you want. Either way, you’re going to make someone’s life a little bit better, and isn’t that what community service is all about?
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