As we move into the final weeks of class and into the holidays, many online students look for opportunities to reconnect in person and make a community impact. The holiday break is an excellent time to engage in volunteer opportunities that can boost resumes and provide personal fulfilment.
If you are working through the holidays or struggling to balance it all, consider starting small. Even a donation or a call to an elderly visit or friend is a powerful start. And as an online student, you have likely developed unique skills that can make you effective in both virtual and in-person community endeavors.
Following are a few ideas for holiday volunteer work in Georgia:
Ring the Bell. You can become a holiday Salvation Bell Ringer and help raise funds for disaster relief, homeless shelters, and anti-human trafficking efforts. You can sign up for as little as a two-hour shift in your local area.
Share the Feast. The Big Gobble (Columbus, LaGrange, and Albany) is one of many organizations in Georgia where you can help provide Thanksgiving meals to those in need. Opportunities include meal prep, packing and delivery.
Become a Foster Pet Owner. Organizations like Stay Together Furever in Atlanta are seeking temporary homes for dogs and cats whose owners face temporary crises. Placements are for up to 90 days. Volunteer opportunities are also available to take videos of the pets for social media.
Be an Elf. Many major events that support charity need holiday help. Currently, Georgia’s Festival of Trees is looking for volunteer elves to greet guests, decorate, assist with Santa photos, and many other activities.
Many colleges and universities in the University System of Georgia also have formal relationships with organizations that need student volunteers. If interested, contact your institution’s office of community engagement.
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