7 Ways to Support Others Through Holiday Volunteering

The holidays are the perfect time to give back to the causes you care about and make a meaningful impact. Many organizations are feeling the end-of-year rush to wrap up donation campaigns, while also hosting plenty of opportunities for folks to get involved with their mission. Volunteers can fill critical staffing gaps at many nonprofits this time of year, laying the groundwork on important projects that serve their communities.

If you’re excited about the idea of devoting your time to a volunteer opportunity, we’ve got you covered. There are plenty of holiday volunteering opportunities that may appeal to your skills, interests, and availability, whether you’re looking for an in-person role or just want to offer your services to an organization in need.

Here are seven ways you can support your community during the holidays and into 2025, featuring volunteer opportunities from Idealist and Catchafire.

1. Support efforts to end homelessness

This season is an ideal time to support nonprofits tackling homelessness and providing access to safe, stable housing. From organizing supply drives at shelters to assisting with job placement services, your efforts can make a meaningful difference for individuals and families.

• In-Person: Serve meals at a shelter, help with clothing distribution, or participate in outreach initiatives. Your time and presence can make a huge difference for those experiencing homelessness.
• Remote: Use your professional skills to support nonprofits focused on housing and homelessness. 
• Take it a step further: Organize a sock drive with your friends or community to collect warm clothing for those in need.

2. Spread holiday cheer in your community

Simple acts of kindness—whether lending a helping hand or using your skills to support community efforts—can make the season brighter for everyone. Your involvement can bring comfort and connection to people who may feel isolated or in need of support during the holidays.

• In-Person: Support community initiatives, such as by hosting an international student or sorting toys for a toy drive.
• Remote: Support organizations providing direct services to communities, like Community Ministry Southwest Denver.
• Take it a step further: Make holiday cards for people in the hospital or seniors at your local assisted living facility.

3. Assist organizations that take care of the elderly

The holidays are a great opportunity to support the elderly, helping to combat isolation and provide essential care. Whether it’s delivering meals, providing gifts, or spending time at senior centers, your involvement can brighten the season for older adults in need!

• In-Person: Spend time at a local senior center or assist with holiday activities for the elderly.
• Remote: Offer assistance to organizations like Meals on Wheels, supporting the lives of homebound individuals.
• Take it a step further: Gather a group of friends to wrap and deliver gifts to seniors in your community.

4. Spend time with children through learning opportunities

Holiday volunteering opportunities that support children’s learning is a gift that lasts well beyond the holidays. Your efforts can inspire confidence, spark joy, and open doors for the next generation.

• In-Person: Volunteer to tutor children at an after-school program or through an education initiative.
• Remote: Education is the #1 cause area volunteers on Catchafire lend their time and expertise to. Support the next generation by volunteering to support organizations focused on education and youth development.
• Take it a step further: Start a nature group for children in your community to learn about the outdoors.

5. Help nonprofits that care for lonely animals

Provide love and shelter to furry friends in need. From volunteering at local shelters to fostering pets or donating supplies, you can ensure animals receive the care they deserve. 

• In-Person: Help care for horses, cats, dogs, and other animals through holiday volunteering opportunities at nonprofits near you.
• Remote: Can’t volunteer in person? Give back through virtual volunteer opportunities with nonprofits supporting animals, like Richmond SPCA.
• Take it a step further: Spend time with pets by feeding, walking, or playing with animals in local shelters.

6. Be part of environmental advocacy efforts

Give back in support of our planet and create a more sustainable future! Your actions can make a significant impact and inspire others to care for the environment. 

• In-Person: Volunteer to plant trees or staff the front desk at a sustainability-focused organization once a week, or whenever you have time. 
• Remote: There are many ways to protect our planet and invest in environmental advocacy, allowing you to impact nonprofits and communities across the globe. Volunteer virtually to support these nonprofits focused on improving and conserving our environment.
• Take it a step further: Host or participate in local clean-up events in your community.

7. Join a nonprofit’s board of directors

While holiday volunteering is a great way to dip your toes into supporting your favorite cause, consider extending your act of service to support the longevity of an organization. By joining a nonprofit’s board, you can leverage your professional expertise to shape impactful programs and create meaningful change for years to come!

• In-Person: Find in-person opportunities at local nonprofits, where you’ll have the opportunity to engage the community and collaborate with other board members.
• Remote: If you can only commit to a virtual role, find opportunities to join a nonprofit’s board to participate in virtual meetings, consult on 1-hour phone calls, and provide strategic guidance.
• Take it a step further: Board service requires a strong commitment to an organization. Find opportunities to offer mentorship to staff members, network, fundraise, and do everything you can to help a nonprofit fulfill its mission.

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Holiday volunteering is a powerful way to spread joy while supporting those in need. In addition to the warm and fuzzy feelings you may get, pursuing a volunteer opportunity can also help advance your career.

Perhaps you’re making connections with a nonprofit or gaining valuable experience in a community services setting—if you’re hoping to switch into the nonprofit sector or land your first nonprofit job, pursuing a volunteer opportunity is a great place to start.  

No matter your availability or commitment level, there are sure to be a few opportunities that can help you give back to others this season. If you’re looking for other chances to give back, be sure to check out Idealist’s and Catchafire’s recent volunteer listings for the most up-to-date opportunities to take action.