Thanksgiving Volunteer Oppourtunities

[Anonymous]

I'm trying to get organized or it won't happen...but what are some volunteer opportunities for Thanksgiving, preferably in DC? Food banks, pairing up with a family to deliver a meal, in kind donations, etc. I would love to involve my 5 and 7 yo kids too. Also, any other advice for ongoing volunteer work (including databases, etc) would be appreciated. We're new to the area and looking to get involved with the community.

Thanks!

[Anonymous]

I would love to see the responses. I have a 5 year old too, and many places do not allow volunteers that young.

[Anonymous]

Many charities are overwhelmed by people who want to volunteer on Thanksgiving - but not the rest of the year. Especially with kids, I would plan some kind of at-home service project for Thanksgiving Day - pack grocery bags to donate to food bank (you can even go do the shopping that day - many stores will be open), sort clothing and toys for donations, etc.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Many charities are overwhelmed by people who want to volunteer on Thanksgiving - but not the rest of the year. Especially with kids, I would plan some kind of at-home service project for Thanksgiving Day - pack grocery bags to donate to food bank (you can even go do the shopping that day - many stores will be open), sort clothing and toys for donations, etc.

This. Well-known charities have been known to turn away volunteers on Thanksgiving and Christmas because too many people sign up to help out on those days.

[Anonymous]

OP here, okay Thanksgiving aside, I get that. I did also ask for ongoing volunteer opps, so if you know of any please list. We've just moved here, and so the holiday was an impetus for us to begin finding a place here that could use our time, help, etc.

[Anonymous]

Meals on wheels? Some house bound folks really appreciate the service and the brief social interaction.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:OP here, okay Thanksgiving aside, I get that. I did also ask for ongoing volunteer opps, so if you know of any please list. We've just moved here, and so the holiday was an impetus for us to begin finding a place here that could use our time, help, etc.

Almost every church has opportunities for volunteering. Because of the economy there are many food banks and local governments can also give you tips on needs for volunteers. Make some telephone calls.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I would love to see the responses. I have a 5 year old too, and many places do not allow volunteers that young.

A good reason is that a 5 yr. old can't do anything of use as a volunteer.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Many charities are overwhelmed by people who want to volunteer on Thanksgiving - but not the rest of the year. Especially with kids, I would plan some kind of at-home service project for Thanksgiving Day - pack grocery bags to donate to food bank (you can even go do the shopping that day - many stores will be open), sort clothing and toys for donations, etc.

Perhaps these "Holiday" volunteers don't understand that the homeless have to eat everyday the same as they eat everyday.