Where to Volunteer This Holiday Season in Boston
As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of giving is everywhere. With all of the festive decorations and joyful gatherings, there’s a unique opportunity to make a positive impact in our community. Boston has numerous opportunities that allow you to volunteer and give back during the holidays. Check out some organizations you can support during this holiday season (& all year round!) to make a difference!
Cradles to Crayons
Cradles to Crayons is an organization that provides essential items to homeless and low-income children. They accept donations of essential items like shoes, coats, and school supplies.
There are numerous ways you can help support Cradles to Crayons this holiday season. You can donate your time and clothing items, or make a monetary donation. You can also organize a drive to collect donations, like our client, On the Dot®, did at their First Annual Give Back Bash! Check out Cradles to Crayons’ website for more details on how to contribute.
Boston Cares
Boston Cares is the largest volunteer agency in New England. They organize and lead team-oriented volunteer opportunities throughout the City of Boston. They work to help the city in several ways. These include volunteering at a food pantry or helping children receive a quality education. Annually, they fill more than 20,000 volunteer spots and support more than 150 Greater Boston Schools and non-profit organizations.
Interested to become a member? Head over to their website and create an account. From there, you can attend an online New Volunteer Orientation to learn more about their programs, and choose the way you serve the City of Boston!
Are you still looking to give back but don’t have the time this year? You can always make a monetary donation on their website or hold a Facebook Fundraiser to support this organization.
The Greater Boston Food Bank
The Greater Boston Food Bank strives to end hunger in the Boston area by providing food and resources to individuals and families in need across 190 cities and towns. Last year, they were able to distribute more than 109 million pounds of food – that’s the equivalent of 90 million meals! There is a Greater Boston Food Bank location in Medford at our client, the Walnut Street Center, called The Mystic Community Market!
There are many ways to get involved with the Greater Boston Food Bank. You can volunteer as an individual or as a group, or you can set up a peer-to-peer fundraising page or team to help bring awareness and funds to those in need. And, as always, you can make a monetary donation. Right now, Stop and Shop is matching all gifts up to the first $350,000!
Animal Rescue League of Boston
We have friends, but there’s nothing like our furry friends! The Animal Rescue League of Boston works to keep animals in need safe and healthy. In 2022, they were able to help over 20,600 animals with the support of their volunteers and donations. They had over 2,800 animals adopted and they were able to save over 790 animals from cruelty and neglect.
One of the greatest ways to get involved with the Animal Rescue League of Boston is to adopt a pet from one of their adoption centers! Check out the full process here to see if you are a good fit to bring home a new furry friend this holiday.
Not ready to make the full commitment to a new pet? Consider fostering or volunteering! Of course, there is always the option to give a donation.
Christmas in the City
Christmas in the City has been working to bring comfort and joy to Boston-area families experiencing hardship since 1989. They strive to make sure all children can experience the magic of the holidays. Last year, they were able to provide over 10,000 holiday gifts to families in need. They are 100% powered by volunteers, so it’s the perfect time of year to get involved!
This year they are looking for volunteers to help fill backpacks and sort toys. Check Christmas in the City’s website to see how you can help. Don’t have the time but still want to make an impact? They of course will accept a monetary or a toy donation!
Volunteering during the holidays in Boston is not only a chance to give back but also an opportunity to connect with your community and experience the true spirit of the season. Whether you choose to donate your time, money, or items in need, your efforts can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. This holiday season, consider the gift of time and service as you join hands with fellow Bostonians to create a warmer, more compassionate community for all.