Give Back, It’s Good for You

Give Back, It’s Good for You

The holiday season is upon us. Are you overwhelmed? Do the words “I’m busy” feel like an understatement? Or are the holidays a tough time because you’re away from family? Feeling grateful and giving back are great strategies to manage all the feelings this time of year can bring.

We hope you had a chance to read our November post Be Grateful, It’s Good for You, filled with compelling reasons and ideas to make gratitude a part of your daily routine. Now that we’re in the season of giving, let’s build off of the gratitude concept and explore the next step…giving back.

According to the Corporation for National Community & Service, the most common forms of volunteering are:

  • Collecting, serving, preparing, or distributing food
  • Fundraising or selling items to raise money
  • Engaging in general labor, like helping build homes or clean up parks
  • Tutoring or teaching
  • Mentoring the youth
  • Collecting, making, or distributing clothing

Chances are many of you already give back; volunteer work and supporting your favorite organizations financially might be second nature…good for you! The phrase “It’s better to give than to receive” definitely holds true. For instance, AARP shares the story of Ramona Griego, an 81-year-old woman who credits volunteer work with turning her life around and helping her overcome depression.

Where To Volunteer

The United Way is the umbrella organization for a slew of non-profits that need volunteers. There are opportunities including in person: veterans visiting veterans and visiting hospice patients, behind the scenes: assembling hygiene kits and even virtual opportunities. Take a scroll through the list and reach out to the organization that sparks your interest. It’s easy to find a volunteer role that will fit with your availability.

Our Favorite Non-Profit

Eastcastle Place is a proud supporter of the  Alzheimer’s Association of Wisconsin where financial donations are always appreciated and joining their volunteer team is easy and meaningful. We’re not the only fans of this great non-profit, Green Bay Packer Shermar Jean-Charles’ leads a “Get One Give One” blanket campaign that runs throughout December. More information is available on the website above.  We hold fundraisers and programs throughout the year to support this worthy cause.

Is volunteering already a big part of your routine? Is there an organization near and dear to your heart? Maybe your church, synagogue, temple or mosque has a need you help fill on a regular basis. Let your friends know and motivate others to do the same. Telling your Eastcastle Place friends is a great way to recruit interested new people who might share your interests. Let us know and we’ll help you spread the word. Happy Holidays and Happy Volunteering!