Thanksgiving is a special time of year. It is a time to reflect on all that surrounds us, including our family, our friends, our home and our church and community. While it should be a year-long sentiment, Thanksgiving is a day when we really think about all that we have and all that we have been blessed with. The spirit of the season compels us to give thanks to each other and to a higher power. Why not give back to others and to your community by volunteering in some way on Thanksgiving day? What better way than helping the less fortunate is there for you to give praise and to show your gratitude for all that you have been given. If you would like to take the time to volunteer during the Thanksgiving season, here are some opportunities you may want to consider. Be sure to look through your local newspaper to see what is being offered in your own area during this holiday.
* Why not adopt a family this Thanksgiving? Of course, this does not mean that you take in a whole family for the holidays; rather, you will make a Thanksgiving dinner for a family in need. Not everybody is fortunate enough to afford a delicious turkey dinner with all the fixings, so why not donate your kitchen and time to put Thanksgiving dinner on the table for another family, in addition to your own. Go to your church or ask friends if they know of any organization that sponsors a program like this one. If you are not able to make an entire Thanksgiving dinner, you can often donate a few desserts or side dishes or simply donate money to the cause.
* Thanksgiving day is notorious for offering different 5ks or half-marathons in order to raise money for different charities. Put on your jogging shoes and start training to participate in one of these runs or walks on Thanksgiving day. Not only will you be helping the less fortunate by paying an entry fee, but you will be shedding a few calories before gorging yourself on turkey later that evening. If you would rather not run, ask to volunteer at one of the many booths that will be up that day, offering drinks and fruit to the runners.
* Several organizations often deliver meals to those who are homebound or to low-income families throughout the year. Donate your time and automobile to help deliver Thanksgiving meals to those who are less fortunate.
* Speak to your local homeless shelter or Salvation Army to determine if they will be hosting a Thanksgiving dinner for the homeless. Spend a few hours helping to prepare the meal as well as to serve it to the homeless in your city or town.
* Not everyone can be in their true home come Thanksgiving Day. Visit your local hospital and spend time with the sick patients there or help serve their Thanksgiving meal. Or why not gather your family and visit a retirement home so you can spread Thanksgiving cheer to the elderly? Unfortunately, not all children see the need to visit or speak with their parents during the holiday season, so you will be helping ease some of the loneliness many of these patients will be feeling on this special day.
