By Dani Katz

Thanksgiving is a time to pause, look back, and appreciate all that you have. There is no better way to celebrate Thanksgiving than giving back to your community. Here are 5 easy and effective ways you can make a difference this Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving Basket

 

Everyone deserves to eat some festive Thanksgiving snacks and treats, and what better way to give back to the community than to craft a Thanksgiving basket for those who are less fortunate. Not only does it feel good, but it could make a world of a difference in someone’s life. 

Leftovers to the Homeless

Everyone knows that we all tend to make way too much food on Thanksgiving. Instead of having leftover for days, try dropping off the leftovers at a homeless shelter. There is nothing like a home cooked meal! 

 

Volunteer at a Homeless Shelter

Homeless shelters are always looking for volunteers, especially on a busy Thanksgiving night. Try to stop by your local homeless shelter and help make a warm meal! Your help will go a long way in making someone’s Thanksgiving special. 

 

 

Send a Dinner

If you’re going away for Thanksgiving and still want to give back to the community, you can always send a dinner to someone in need this year. There are many websites that will send a prepared Thanksgiving meal to anyone’s door.

Local Food Drive

Create or participate in a local food drive! We tend to forget that canned foods are a large portion of our Thanksgiving meal. Drop off a few cans of cranberry sauce or donate some unperishable stuffing mix to help enhance others’ Thanksgiving dinners.

It sounds cliché, but a little does go a long way. Pick one of these volunteer opportunities, and help contribute to your community; it’s rewarding and very much appreciated especially during this time of giving and thankfulness!