Although Thanksgiving can be a magical time of year for families to celebrate their loved ones and focus on their prosperities, it can also be the cause of heartache for those less fortunate. This is why many Boise nonprofits make it a priority to provide during the holiday season.
We are sure you have seen the “Help Wanted” signs all throughout the town. While for-profit businesses struggle to find employees, nonprofits are doing the same with limited resources, such as a flexible income. Due to a lack of staff and an inability to offer a competitive wage, some non-profits will struggle to feed their visitors this Thanksgiving as they did in years before.
You may be asking yourself what can I do to help? Well, while nonprofits strive to keep up with demand, you may consider supporting them in a couple of different ways.
Volunteer
Volunteering at a nonprofit is not only a great way to see first-hand how you can make a difference in your community, but it is also a necessary component to many nonprofits. Especially during the employee shortage, it’s important to consider spending your extra time giving back.
Thanksgiving is a great time to volunteer… and it can become a family tradition! There is no better way to spread family cheer than to serve those less fortunate during the month of November. There are many opportunities to help that including:
- Packing food boxes
- Serving hot meals
- Distributing Thanksgiving food boxes
- Delivering meals to those who are immobile
Donate
Donations come in all shapes and sizes, and as many nonprofits will say - no donation is too small. Donating to a nonprofit organization can make the world of difference for the organization and the recipients of their services. This is an opportunity for you and your loved ones to make a direct difference in the community you call home. Here are some ideas on how you can donate:
- Donate holiday meats to a food pantry
- Donate canned goods to food banks
- Start a neighborhood fundraiser or food drive
- Host a party, and require each guest to donate an item
- Write a check or donate cash at your local food bank or pantry
Nonprofits Need your Support
Thanksgiving is that magical time of year to gather with those who mean most to you, make your favorite Fall dishes, and eat way too much of them, but it is important to remember that others may not be so fortunate. Share your love, family, and time with a local nonprofit. If possible, consider showing support for the following essential organizations through volunteering or donating.
- Idaho Food Bank
- The Salvation Army in Boise, Nampa, and Caldwell
- St. Vincent Depaul
- Interfaith Sanctuary
- Rescue Mission
- Boise Mutual Aid
Happy Thanksgiving from Totally Boise!