Here at VCNB, some of our departments like to celebrate the holidays by volunteering together. For example, our Marketing Department does something different every year. They have baked cookies for residents at the Ronald McDonald House and volunteered at the Fairfield County Meals on Wheels by stuffing bags and lending a hand with BINGO. They will tell you that giving of your time to help others is a wonderful thing to do but it seems especially rewarding during the holiday season.

If you look around your own community, you will find endless ways to give back whether it’s by volunteering with an organization or finding and filling a need on your own. Here are some ideas to help you find just the right volunteer project for you.

Booster Clubs – Wherever you see a high school sporting event, odds are there’s a concessions stand that’s operated by volunteers who have kids involved in the sport. A shortage of volunteers might leave the same few folks working every game, unable to just relax and enjoy the event. Food preppers, runners and cashiers are always welcome!

Animal Shelters – Most animal shelters need volunteers to help with everything from cleaning cages to walking dogs or playing with cats. If you love animals, this could be a great way to give back and to help someone who can give you nothing in return but purrs and puppy kisses. We have one employee who often volunteers her time looking out for bunnies at her local Humane Society.

Holiday Events – Most communities have special events for the holidays. For example, McArthur has Christmas in Downtown, a one day event where there’s always a need for volunteers. From passing out programs to helping with the parade, most community events need people of all skill levels to pitch in and help make the magic happen.

Senior Center – Your local senior center could likely use some volunteers to help with their activities or to pack the blizzard bags that help seniors on days when meals-on-wheels cannot deliver.

Food Pantry – Nearly every food pantry in America needs helpers, especially these last two years when the number of people needing help has skyrocketed. Over the years, countless VCNB employees have passed out boxes of food to folks who need a helping hand.

The Places You Already Support – Whether it’s your child’s school, your church or the neighborhood library, there are needs all over your community. You just have to ask if there’s room for one more to help with their activities.

Make Up Something – Maybe you see a need in your community and feel like you can help. Picking up litter at your favorite park or making blessing bags for homeless people are two ways you can give back in an informal but meaningful way.

Nothing makes you appreciate the people in your life, the pets in your home and the food in your cupboard quite like helping someone else. Gather coworkers or family and find a project that everyone can support. You may find that you enjoy volunteering so much you want to do it more often!