Many of you have contacted me asking how you can get involved with charity/volunteer work this holiday season, so here are some of my recommendations:
New York Cares Coat Drive (December 1-31): Consider hosting a coat drive by setting up a donation site in your lobby, office, church, school cafeteria (I did this last year), or just stop by a donation site near you with your gently used coats (no other items are accepted, so leave the sweaters, hats, etc at home).
Toys for Tots (thanks to readers Amy and Kimberly for writing in about this): You can donate online or drop off toys at a campaign site near you.
Operation Santa Claus (I wrote about this wonderful organization earlier): You can donate or pick up a letter and answer it yourself; either way, you’ll make a needy child’s holiday season that much brighter.
The Bowery Mission: Lots of wonderful opportunities; check out the Programs for Men, the Programs for Women, and Kids with a Promise.
City Meals on Wheels: Provide nutritious meals and much-needed company to your homebound elderly neighbors (references and application required).
And if you’re looking for a longer-term commitment, consider one of the following wonderful organizations:
Big Brothers Big Sisters (I was a Big Sister when I lived in LA, and it was a wonderful experience)
Covenant House: Help homeless children by donating or becoming a volunteer.
GMHC: Take on the fight against HIV/AIDS by donating or volunteering your time.
ASPCA: Donate or join the fight against animal cruelty.
