As we approach Thanksgiving, now is the perfect time to reflect on all that we are thankful for. For many of us in the real estate industry, we are grateful for our clients, our colleagues, and our careers. But this Holiday season we’ve come up with some other ways we can show our appreciation. Here are 5 ideas to help you give thanks to those around you and also give back to the community you are in.
1. Help Fight Food Insecurity
Food insecurity is a growing problem in the United States. According to the USDA, more than 35 million Americans – including 11 million children – struggle to access food on a daily basis. This translates to one in eight households being food insecure. When families are food insecure, they often experience more severe health issues and their students are unable to concentrate in the classroom. As a result, food insecurity can negatively impact socioeconomic growth. However, there are ways you can help this holiday season. One of the best ways to help in Washington State is to make a donation to Northwest Harvest.
Northwest Harvest supports a statewide network of over 300 food banks, meal programs, and high-need schools. Focused on improving equity in our food system, Northwest Harvest believes that food should be available, accessible, adequate, and appropriate to all people. Currently, they are building a new distribution center in Yakima to bring fresh produce from our agricultural heartland to families across Washington State.
Check out their website and make a donation this holiday season: https://www.northwestharvest.org/
2. Volunteer and Help Those Less Fortunate Around you
Volunteering is a great way to take action and show gratitude. It’s important to make sure you’re volunteering for something that is meaningful to you. For example, if you are passionate about food security, you can volunteer at a food bank. You’ll be making a difference in your community and helping to ensure that everyone has access to food. Volunteering is a great way to give back, and it’s also a lot of fun. You’ll meet new people and make new friends while you’re helping to make a difference. So if you’re looking for a way to make a difference, consider volunteering. It’s a great way to show your gratitude and take action on something you’re passionate about
Here’s a list of some volunteering ideas around Seattle WA: https://www.seattlecu.com/blog/52-places-to-volunteer-in-seattle
3. Shop Small Business Saturday
With the holiday season upon us, now is the perfect time to show your support for small businesses in your community. Black Friday deals are wonderful but Small businesses are the backbone of each and every neighborhood, and they offer unique products and services that you can’t find anywhere else. So this holiday season, make a point of shopping at your local small businesses. You’ll be supporting your community and getting one-of-a-kind gifts that your friends and family will love. And who knows – you might just find some new favorite places to shop!
Some great local businesses to support in Seattle: https://www.shopify.com/retail/shop-local-seattle
4. Give a Thanksgiving Dinner
Thanksgiving is a time to enjoy delicious food with family and friends. But it’s also a time to remember those who are less fortunate. This year, when you’re buying ingredients for your own Thanksgiving feast, consider picking up an extra turkey or two. Turkeys are deeply discounted this week, so it’s a great opportunity to donate to your local food pantry. Just a few extra cans of corn or green beans, along with a box of instant mashed potatoes and a deli-made pie, can make all the difference for someone in need. So this Thanksgiving, give thanks by giving back to those who are less fortunate.
Local Food Pantries Accepting Thanksgiving Meals: https://www.feedingamerica.org/hunger-blog/how-donate-thanksgiving-food
