Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday are all focused on Holiday Shopping. This year, we have a new day to help encourage and celebrate Holiday Giving and Service.
“We have a day for giving thanks. We have two for getting deals….Wouldn’t it be great to have a day for giving back?” Giving Tuesday was created to encourage and inspire giving throughout the Holiday Season.
Many individuals and families already make volunteering a part of their Holiday tradition including participating in an Angel Tree program through work, Adopting-A-Family through Church, delivering Thanksgiving meals, or ringing bells for Salvation Army. I am always inspired by those who work in non-profit agencies – they truly love their work and give so much more than the material items they might provide. Thank you for giving of yourself to help others. Let your service brighten the Holidays for many, and inspire others to do the same.
There are many wonderful organizations in and around Omaha whose mission is to help others. Here are a few that I have had the privilege to work with:
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands – “Big Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”), ages 6 through 18, in communities across the country. We develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people.”
Completely KIDS – “Completely KIDS is an Omaha nonprofit whose mission is to develop youth and their families through out-of-school time and family strengthening programs in communities where they live.”
Heartland Hope Mission – “Our mission is to provide food, clothing and promote self sufficiency for people in need.”
Hope Center for Kids – “Hope Center for Kids strives to faithfully inspire hope in youth and children in the inner city through education, employability, collaboration and faith.”
Ted E. Bear Hollow – “Ted E. Bear Hollow is the community resource where our grieving children and teens come to heal.”
United Way Omaha – “To improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities.”
Desiring to volunteer over the Holidays or throughout the year? Search the United Way’s online database for Adult & Youth Volunteer Opportunities at dozens of local nonprofit organizations. Give the gift of joy and time this Holiday Season. Together, we can all make a difference!
CC image courtesy of Gisela Giardino
Do you have a favorite organization that you volunteer with? Please share in the comments below!