To channel the spirit of gratitude and generosity this month, we talked to our staff to see where they donate their time and money. Philanthropy is a deeply important aspect of our culture here at Private Prep. Whether devoting your time to a cause or making a monetary donation, there are plenty of options to get involved. Not sure where to start? See if these ideas from our team inspire you — and, as always, please share your ideas with us in the comments so that we can all work together.
GIVE THE GIFT OF FOOD
Food plays an important part in our lives in more ways than one. Not only do we need food for sustenance, but shared meals can build community and strengthen relationships. Gifting food is a great option if you love cooking, have an abundance of food in your pantry, or wish to share a conversation with someone new. And you can get the entire family involved! Here are just a few of the many ways that you can give the gift of food:
- Thanksgiving dinner donation
- Find your local food bank online and donate some of their most-needed items this Thanksgiving! Commonly sought-after items include boxed stuffing, canned vegetables, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce.
- Volunteer at a local food bank
- Contact your local food bank for holiday volunteering opportunities! As long as you sign up early, you shouldn’t have trouble finding a volunteering slot that fits with your family’s schedule.
- Donate food boxes
- Many local charities or food banks offer food box programs, through which you can pick up a distribution box, fill it with the items on a list, and return it to be donated to a family in need!
- Donate your Halloween candy
- Through organizations like Treats for Troops, you can donate your leftover Halloween candy to help a community in need.
WRITE CARDS OR LETTERS
As the holidays near, not everyone gets a chance to celebrate with their closest loved ones. Writing letters is a wonderful way to bring joy this season. Grab a pen and check out these options:
- Write letters to veterans through organizations such as Soldiers’ Angels and A Million Thanks
- Write letters to residents in assisted living homes through Love for our Elders or Brighten A Day
- Write to children in adoption centers by getting involved with Paper Bridges or Calvary Global Kids
WORK IT OUT
Stay energized during the holidays by giving back through physical activity! Your friends and family can get involved too, by cheering you on or joining you on the go. For those of you with extra giddyup this season, our team especially loves the following options:
- Join a race! Charity races like Run Across America abound this season, so pick the cause of your choice and sign up with your family and friends, or tackle it solo! Whether you walk, trot, or run, races are a fantastic way to raise funds.
- Donate your daily dog walks! Organizations like Wooftrax will donate to an animal shelter of your choice for every walk you and your pup take. Walks are tracked through a free app, and it’s healthy for you and your furry friend!
DONATE YOUR TIME
Your efforts don’t always have to be tangible or monetary. Sometimes, giving the simple gift of time can be beautifully generous. You can get the community involved or participate from the comfort of your home.
- Community clean up
- Join your neighbors, friends, or family to clean up your local park, sidewalks, or parking lots. Picking up litter, trimming weeds, raking leaves, or giving well-loved structures a fresh coat of paint are just a few ways to donate your time towards bettering your community this season.
- Volunteer at a local animal shelter
- Animal lovers can volunteer their time playing with and walking the critters at your local shelter. Or, if you have kids who love furry friends but perhaps aren’t up to the task of walking frisky pups, another rewarding way to get involved with shelters is to volunteer to read books to the animals. Volunteer readers provide soothing company to pets as they await adoption — and, as a bonus, reading to pets can boost new readers’ confidence. Grab your favorite holiday classic, and get started!
DONATE BLOOD
Donating blood at an American Red Cross blood drive can be a life-changing or even life-saving way to give this season. Before heading to your local blood drive, make sure that your blood sugar isn’t low, and remember that you must be at least 16 years old to donate. Donors may want to consult a doctor before registering to give blood.
DONATE ITEMS
One of the most accessible ways to give is to donate clothes, toys, and household items to your local thrift store. Many thrift stores have designated, contact-free donation drop off locations or drop-boxes around the city. It’s as easy as boxing up unused items while you’re watching TV or listening to music! Plus, it’s a great way to get a head start on spring cleaning. Donating allows your unused items to be upcycled and reused, benefiting someone in need. Common items that we love to donate include:
- Coats, clothes, & shoes
- Toys
- Furniture & furnishings
- Glassware, silverware, & dining sets
- Pots & pans
- Holiday decorations
We could not be prouder of our Private Prep family for how involved, generous, and creative they are during this season of giving and every season. There is no wrong way to give back! However you participate this year should make sense for you and your family. So get out there and have fun this holiday season — and don’t forget to share your experiences and ideas by commenting on this blog or tagging us in your adventures!
