Tis’ the Season for Giving
Vol·un·teer : noun, a person who freely offers to take part in an enterprise or undertake a task.
The act of volunteering impacts lives in many positive ways. Not only are these acts of kindness useful for the individuals in need, but they also build self-confidence for the volunteers. Though a person is not getting paid to invest their time, the knowledge that you assisted someone in need can be self-rewarding. And volunteering as a family is a great way for younger children to learn from example and grow their own confidence by helping those less fortunate. Most organizations encourage their participants to take initiative and leadership roles in a supportive and inclusive environment, which helps volunteers discover a sense of personal achievement and satisfaction while building friendships at the same time.
But the benefits of volunteering go even further. Did you know how good it was for your health? According to the Mayo Clinic, volunteering decreases your risk for depression, helps people stay physically and mentally active, reduces stress, and may even help you live longer.
If you don’t have time to reach out and volunteer, donating to good causes can also aid with your physical and mental state. Donations can change the lives of others, bringing you a sense of purpose and connection.
Whether you volunteer or donate this holiday season, remember, when we come together to help others, ordinary people can do extraordinary things.
Looking to volunteer or donate in west Orange County? There are lots of places that need help, here are just a few to get you started.
Donation and Volunteering Opportunities:
Matthew’s Hope Ministries is a faith-based homeless outreach ministry serving the needs of those who have some connection to west Orange County. They need volunteers and are always looking for donations.
Bread of Life Fellowship Bread of Life is an organization that serves as a food distribution center in the communities of Central Florida. Volunteers and donations are always welcomed.
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Fl. is a food bank and their mission is to create hope and nourish lives through a powerful hunger relief network, while multiplying the generosity of a caring community. Monetary donations are accepted and volunteers.
Salvation Army an international movement that is apart of the universal Christian Church. The goal is to meet individual needs without discrimination. They are seeking monetary, goods and clothing donations.
Polka Dogz Pet Rescue is a registered 501C3 company and our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and re-home dogs while educating the community on responsible pet ownership. Monetary donations are accepted . If you are looking to donate please contact Polka Dogz to find out what items are needed.
West Orange Habitat for Humanity ReStore aims to have a world where everyone has a decent place to live. They heavily rely on the generosity of volunteers to carry out the goal of providing shelter to those in need.
Canine Companions is a non-profit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships.Volunteers care for breeder dogs and nurture newborn puppies for eight weeks. Canine Companions puppies spend the next 14-18 months with volunteer puppy raisers who provide basic obedience training, socialization and care.
