How to Volunteer at a Soup Kitchen for Thanksgiving

Call it what you like: soup kitchen, food bank, or feast for the homeless, but whatever you call it, don't forget the needs of your community. An extra set of hands in the line moving food or cutting in the kitchen is a blessing for those nonprofits who depend on volunteers.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Finding your local soup kitchen is easy! Many are connected with churches or synagogues in the community. Others are part of the United Way. Ask your friends if they know or contribute to any. Another fast way is to call your local church and ask for suggestions. The best ones are those known by word of mouth.

2. Before calling, decide on how much time you have to spend. Are you willing to give up a Saturday? Is working on Thanksgiving an option? Know what you have to give, then call and ask for the volunteer coordinator.

3. The coordinator will have a set schedule or task list they are looking to fill. Provide your time allotment to the coordinator and ask if anything matches. Most of the time, they have a wide variety of places.

4. On your day of volunteering, arrive ten to fifteen minutes early so you can be adjusted to the situation. The first time I ever volunteered at a food bank it was an overwhelming experience. Be open to what you see in a very non-judgmental way.

5. After your shift, thank the volunteer coordinator and go home. And when you arrive on your doorsteps, take a moment to realize how blessed you are in this world.

Tips & Warnings

• Sometimes volunteering is very hard. Be open to learning new tasks.
• Smile! The world is always a better place with it.
• Don't take on too much volunteering. If you feel like you are overwhelmed, step back and decide what you can offer. Some is better than none!

[nyleahy]

on 11/17/2008 Working in the area and would love to help in any way possible.Please let me know how to join for thanksgiving. Chris [e-mail]

[sunshine11219]

on 11/15/2008 great article

[yourmamasaidwha]

on 11/2/2008 very thoughtful article...

[MIghtyDreamer]

on 10/29/2008 I"ve always thought this was a geniune and kind gester for this holiday. True warm advice.

[veryirie]

on 10/29/2008 The gift of giving is the best gift of all; thanks for this article.