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By: Maura L. Johnson, LCSW, PMH-C
As we close out Halloween, my personal favorite holiday, many of us are looking forward to the season of giving and gratitude. With Thanksgiving quickly approaching, we may be wondering how to be more involved in helping to serve our communities. I’ve decided to devote my November and December issues to highlighting some area organizations and their many volunteer opportunities. Though this list isn’t an exhaustive one, hopefully this will serve as a great starting point for those looking to give their time and support this season.
Light of Life Rescue Mission: This long-standing organization helps provide meals to homeless individuals and families. Volunteers can assist in preparing and distributing over 1,000 meals on Thanksgiving Day or assemble Thanksgiving Dinner Boxes for families in need. You can sign up to help at their Voeghtly Street location on their website:
Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank: Volunteers are needed to sort and package food for distribution to those experiencing food insecurity. They also host direct distribution events where volunteers help distribute food to the community. Many people are familiar with this organization and the help they provide the Pittsburgh communities. You can learn more about getting involved and sign up at their website:
Mt. Lebanon United Methodist Church: This church offers opportunities to volunteer by helping with delivery, takeout, or sit-down meals for the community from 12:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. Volunteer opportunities can be discussed by calling them at: (412) 531-3387.
VolunTOTS of Southwestern PA: This one is my personal favorite to discuss, as it centers on involving our children in acts of service to others. With their motto “Everyone can be a helper,” they focus on all the ways, big and small, we can give back to those in need. Founded in 2021 by Cami Teacoach, VolunTOTS hosts events all over Pittsburgh, including nursing home trick or treats, packing holiday meal boxes, and various food drives. To learn more and get involved, visit their website at: https://voluntots.org/
The Salvation Army: Red kettle season is upon us and the Salvation Army is always looking for volunteers to ring the bells outside various retail establishments. For Thanksgiving, they run their “Operation Thanksgiving,” which provides food and other essentials to those in need. This mission operates from donations, which can be conveniently placed on their website at: https://give-gs.salvationarmy.org/give/615371/#!/donation/checkout
Stay tuned for the December article, which will include various toy drives, meal drives/donation locations and other volunteer opportunities to spread holiday joy throughout our communities. Wishing everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving!
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