This Saturday, November 21st is Family Volunteer Day an annual tradition for my household. Finding a way to take part in festivities this year feels like the perfect way to hold gratitude for all that my family has despite the challenges of 2020.
Volunteering has always been a favorite activity for our family. My children love the opportunity to be of use to someone else as it seems- joy begets joy. It brings them great pleasure to see others’ happiness with their actions. This year as we’ve spent so much time as a solo unit, every opportunity to get beyond ourselves and come in connection with others is an invaluable opportunity for joy.
Started 30 years ago by Points of Light Foundation, This global day of service celebrates the power of families to work together in support of their communities and neighborhoods.
This year in Santa Cruz County due to the pandemic we had to get creative, but we have a number of great ideas for your household . Your family can help make gift bags, write “thinking of you” cards, be a holiday helper for isolated seniors, or adopt a family.
Here’s How Your Family Can Take Action:
Gift Bags- Help us make gift bags to be used when packaging up our Adopt a Family Project gifts. You can pick up blank bags from us or get some blank paper gift bags or bakery bags and decorate them with holiday drawings and designs. These personalized bags ensure that the families receiving the gifts from the program know that they are getting gifts from our community of caring people. Learn More
Thinking of You Cards- While we’re all stuck at home many seniors are feeling the stress of isolation as they are no longer able to see their regular friends and support network. You can send some extra good vibes by making handmade greeting cards. Deliver finished cards to our office and we will give them to seniors in need of a bit of cheer. Learn More
Help Isolated Seniors– Become a Holiday Helper by giving to the often forgotten care facility residents in Santa Cruz County. Each year I-You Ventures organizes a gift drive for seniors. Check out the list of recommended items and scheduled delivery times. Learn More
Adopt a Family- Join us in making the holiday brighter for struggling families by adopting a family through our adopt a family project. You can choose a whole family or pick up a star at local business to purchase just one gift for a family. You can also get creative and come up with family fun way to raise money for the project. Learn More about the Adopt a Family Project.
Looking Beyond Family Volunteer Day
For those families looking for activities to do together beyond Family Volunteer Day, there are a number of options to get involved as we head into the season of giving. We invite you to check out our Holiday Volunteer Guide for actions you can take.
In particular, we would love your support at the Adopt a Family Warehouse. This year as we keep our volunteers safe in our social distance warehouse we hope to register groups who are part of a pod. We would love to have your family choose a slot in the warehouse to volunteer. You will help sort, organize and wrap gifts. It is an easy and festive opportunity perfect for parents and children. Learn more and register for this opportunity.
Blog Post written by Volunteer Center Director of Communications Christine Loewe. Everyday she dedicates herself to promoting the endless possibilities for building new connections and making our moments more meaningful through volunteerism.
