Making A Difference - The Holiday Spirit - Ways Your Family Can Help in Tucson Arizona

No matter what your interests or time constraints, there are many organizations around Tucson, Arizona (and some are nationwide) that will fit you and your family needs to be a part of the giving spirit of the season!

Here are some suggestions:

Alleviate hunger: Bake a favorite bread or muffins and drop it off at your local food pantry, fire station or police station. For more information, please look online at www.spreadthebread.org

Keep someone warm: Collect your old coats and those of your family and friends. For more information, look online at www.onewarmcoat.org or the Tucson chapter of the Salvation Army and ask about Operation Deep Freeze www.salvationarmy.com

Help animals: Donating blankets or pet food, you'll be sure to provide support to animals in need and their caregivers. In Tucson, Hope For Animals and The Humane Society of Tucson are good places to start. Nationwide go to www.pets911.com to get information about other pet shelters that you are your family might be interested in helping.

Visit the elderly or veteran: There are so many nursing homes around Tucson where you and your family could brighten the day or week of someone who has no one to visit them! Call ahead to places like Devon Gables or VA Hospital and ask about coming in to bring presents. Better yet, schedule a time to go and with your family, kids and friends and sing carols! Or simply find a local Meals on Wheels organization and help deliver meals or contribute food to help them brighten more days for elderly in need.

If none of these suit your interests, visit www.thevolunteerfamily.org or locally, the Volunteer Center of Tucson and get more ideas for volunteering!

Copyright Gabrielle (Kamahele) Rhind, protected by COPYSCAPE 2008. If you want to reprint parts of this - just email me for my permission rhindohana@msn.com . Buying or selling Tucson Real Estate? Click info@gabriellerhind.com and let me know how I can help you!