THREE WAYS TO DONATE YOUR TIME THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

For many of us the holidays are a time to celebrate the things we have, as well as the people and family in our lives. However, for some people the holidays are a reminder of what they do not have and the family or friends they have lost. We can help those who are in need by donating our time to any number of charitable organizations. Here are three ways to donate your time this holiday season:

1. Homeless Shelters - Throughout all communities there are various shelters who take in the homeless. They provide basic food, clothing and meals. These shelters can be full during the holiday season and volunteers can help with preparing meals and assisting those who may have disabilities.
2. Food Banks - Many communities have local food banks which collect food and distribute to the needy. During the holidays, many of these food banks (like the Harry Chapin Food Bank) need extra help with distributing holiday meals to those who would not have any holiday meals.
3. Toys For Tots - Toys For Tots is a nationally recognized toy collection and distribution organization that was started by Marine Major Bill Hendricks in 1947. Almost every town in America has drop off locations throughout the town. There are also many other organizations who collect toys for underprivileged children. Years ago, our company was made aware of the needs in a remote part of the Collier County where some children never got toys for Christmas. Over the past several, years thousands and thousands of toys have been donated and this community now gets toys to every child, during the holiday season.

There are many, many other ways to donate time this holiday season. Thinking about others who are less fortunate can permanently change the lives of many who would otherwise have little to celebrate. This holiday season let us all resolve to give to those who are less fortunate. It will help us appreciate even more, what we have.