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Q: It’s no secret that kids wait all year long for this magical season. Now is a great time to show our kids the importance of giving back and volunteering. What two kid-appropriate giving projects should we check out? Expert: Kim says...
This: Make Change.
An easy way kids can contribute is to start a coin jar to benefit local food pantries and sustainable food resource organizations like the Power Packs Project. For every 10 cents saved and donated to Power Packs, a pound of fruits and vegetables will be shared with a Power Pack child and his or her family. What could your change look like? One dollar a week saved buys produce for 10 kids and their families, and $10 a month saved buys produce for 100 kids and their families.
That: Protein Packed
Food Drive. For school-age kids, a Protein Drive in their classroom, scout troop, or youth group is a great way to contribute. Each week we send out a recipe to families and provide the ingredients to make that recipe. For this reason, we have two specific proteins that we often use—chicken and tuna. The third item we send to families once a month is peanut butter. Collecting these items helps our families enjoy protein-rich meals throughout the year.
Q: While there are packages to wrap and family gatherings to attend this holiday, there is also a desire give back. With an afternoon’s worth of time, what are two ways we can get involved with local community-benefit organizations? Expert: Karen says...
This: Adopt-A-Home Program.
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Volunteers are key during the holidays, as well as throughout the year. Consider volunteering with a program like Excentia’s Adopt-A-Home program. The concept is to “adopt” one of Excentia’s homes in Lancaster County. Each residence is home to three adults who are cared for by direct service providers. Volunteers help rake leaves, shovel snow or prepare flower beds. As a volunteer, your gift of time will bring joy to both you and those to whom you “gift” your time and talents.
That: Share a Smile.
AmazonSmile is a tech-savvy way you can make a difference in your community while doing your shopping during the holidays and throughout the coming year. It’s simple to do: start by changing your amazon.com preference to smile.amazon.com, select the “change your charity” option and search for the organization of your choice. While you are purchasing gifts for family and friends, a percentage of your purchases will go to supporting your selected organization.
Q: Many of us have community-benefit organizations we support throughout the year. What are two ways we can further contribute to these organizations during the holidays? Expert: Megan says...
This: Check This off Your List.
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During the holidays, giving is a true sentiment of the season. The animals at our shelter do not have warm homes or families to cuddle. By donating wishlist items or providing a monetary gift, you are helping to provide genuine care and veterinary services as these animals await their FURever home. Other ways to contribute include our guardian angel program, kennel sponsorships, memorial donations and holiday shopping affiliates.
That: Be Essential.
Volunteers are a vital part of the HSHA team, and we are always looking for dedicated and committed volunteers to assist with the animals and some everyday responsibilities of shelter life. Whether you are interested in walking dogs, helping at events or socializing cats, there is a place for you at HSHA. The animals are waiting for you; get started today!
