How to Give Back to Your Community During The Season of Giving

We have all heard time and time again, “It’s the season of giving!” But what exactly does that mean to you? The “season of giving” is not just about holiday parties, giving presents to friends and family, and loved ones, but about giving your time and energy to those less fortunate than yourself. Here in Chicago, IL there are so many opportunities to volunteer your time and help out those who may need a little extra holiday cheer this Winter. If you're looking for a more non-traditional approach to volunteering, that doesn't involve nursing homes, food banks, or an animal shelter, then check out these three upcoming opportunities that you can volunteer your time, love, and energy to those in the community during the holiday season. 
 

Chicago Cares

This non-profit organization is on a mission to bring together a stronger and more unified city of Chicago. Hosting volunteer opportunities throughout the city, Chicago Cares works to break down barriers, build empathy amongst different members of the community, and prove to everyone that we are all neighbors in this big city. 

Every Tuesday and Thursday from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Chicago Cares partners with Breakthrough Urban Ministries to find volunteers who can help sort through donated clothing items to be sent to their Women’s Boutique. This boutique provides basics and business casual attire for women who need something to wear to a job interview. This volunteer opportunity is perfect for those who like to strike up a conversation, is personable, and good for all ages as well! Come spend time with Chicago Cares and Breakthrough twice a week through the end of the year!  
 

Friends of the Forest Preserves 

These friends have been gathering together since 1998 to protect, promote, and care for the Cook County forest preserves. The Friends of the Forest Preserves work together to make sure we maintain an environment still fit for those animals who inhabited the land before us. 

Join them this Saturday, December 14th from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm as they partner with volunteers from North Branch Restoration Project to continue many year-long projects to bring the Blue Star Memorial Woods back to life! Tools will be provided for you as you spend time in the morning learning what it takes to be an active caretaker of the river systems. 
 

Garfield Park Conservatory

If you have a green thumb and would like to commit more time than just one weekend afternoon to help the community, then Garfield Park Conservatory may be the place for you! For nonprofit and service groups, corporate volunteer groups, and youth volunteer groups, Garfield has options for everyone to bring out your inner environmentalist. 

With ten different areas to focus on for volunteering, you can pick whichever category sounds best to you. Whether it be composting or horticulture, any adult in the community is welcome to sign up to be a volunteer and help them on their mission of spreading joy through helping the environment! 

 

Spreading holiday cheer and lending a helping hand will always make you feel good this time of year. Don’t miss out on what this period of giving truly means to us and everyone in the Chicago, Illinois community. This holiday season, when you ask yourself how you can give back and help out, remember that you can volunteer right here in your own neighborhood! If you do not have room between holiday parties to donate an afternoon of your time, remember that all of these non-profit organizations always welcome you to donate funds as well. Join us for a season of volunteering, spreading joy, and giving back to those less fortunate than yourself. From all of us at Aqua, we wish you and your loved ones a happy holiday!

The post How to Give Back to Your Community During The Season of Giving appeared first on Aqua at Lakeshore East Blog.