Tis' The Season to Volunteer!

It’s the final countdown. With Turkey day over, #GivingTuesday has ended, your holiday decorations are up (or ready to be decorated), and the joyous carols have begun to stream from every speaker in sight. It seems the holidays are here, ready or not -- but there’s just one thing left to do before we settle down and celebrate with friends and family . . .

What would this time of year be without spreading holiday cheer through helping others in your community? We all try to give more, but here are few ways you can volunteer to put a smile on a child’s face or get a hot meal to someone who needs it.

Try some of these volunteer opportunities and start a new tradition this year. For a full list of all active holiday opportunities listed by Volunteer New York! in the Westchester and Putnam area please click here.

Be Santa’s Helper in Tarrytown on Saturday, December 13th

Few symbols serve as a stronger reminder of Christmas than the image of jolly Santa Claus handing out gifts to children. Now picture yourself being a part of this holiday tradition. WestCop is looking for volunteers to help Santa. Find out more information here.

Prepare or Deliver Meals in the Bronx on Christmas Day

Why not do something special for those who are stuck at home for the holidays? The Community Synagogue of Rye is looking for volunteers to help participate in the preparation and delivery of meals to the elderly Jewish homebound on Christmas morning. Find out more information here.

Wrap Gifts for the Holidays in Ossining throughout the Season

Calling all elves. The Open Door Family Medical Center is seeking help from volunteers in wrapping the 2500 toys which they collect during their Holiday Toy Drive. Find out more information here.

Help the Westchester Christmas Dinner in Katonah from December 20th through December 25th

Whether you’re looking for a glamorous volunteer opportunity or prefer to get down and dirty, we’ve got you covered. The Westchester Christmas Dinner, which feeds the less fortunate on Christmas Day, is looking for help in many different areas. Find out more information here.

Use your Musical Talents in White Plains on December 25th or January 1st

One of the saddest things in life is wasted talent. Please consider using your gifts to sing or play an instrument at Grace Church Community Center during their holiday meals. Find out more information here.

For more information on these or other holiday opportunities visit volunteernewyork.org/holiday. Don’t forget if you’re interested in giving back 365 days a year, Volunteer New York! maintains a list of over 500 nonprofits who all need support and have active opportunities year round. Find a cause you care about at volunteernewyork.org any day of the year!