7 Ways to Volunteer This Thanksgiving and Help Your Community

If you like being behind the wheel, consider delivering meals to those in need. While there are tons of organizations that deliver meals on Thanksgiving, Meals on Wheels is a great option with local branches all over the country (search its website for nearby locations). The need for new volunteers varies by community. If you can't make it for the ride, you can donate food to your community's branch, too. You can also reach out to your local Salvation Army or hospice organizations to see if they are in need of volunteers for meal-delivery services.

Looking to give back on Thanksgiving and work up a big appetite while doing so? Sign up for a turkey trot! There are tons of races that take place all over the country during Thanksgiving, many of which benefit local charities and support good causes. And if you want to take part in the action but running isn't exactly your thing, you can also inquire about volunteering at these events!

These facilities are often in need of volunteers to not only cook and serve the meals, but also collect the food and ensure there is enough to go around. Setting up the service area, greeting and seating visitors, and cleaning up afterward are also ways you can contribute. To search for these types of opportunities, call your local Salvation Army or visit VolunteerMatch. You can also check Craigslist or reach out to local churches in your area.

If you don't have time to volunteer on Thanksgiving day, don't fret — there are still plenty of ways you can get out and help. One option is putting together a few care packages and sending them to troops deployed overseas. The Department of Defense suggests contacting your local Red Cross or referring to Military One Source, for more information on how to send your care package.

By donating to your local food bank, you can give the gift of meals and memories to families struggling with hunger. In fact, with every $1 you give, you help provide 10 meals through the Feeding America network of food banks. You can also reach out to your local food bank to find out which foods are needed through donation.

Whether it's through a conversation or simply being in the presence of others, sometimes there is nothing more meaningful than connecting with someone who really needs it. From nursing homes and veteran associations to hospitals and homeless shelters, the options are endless for making someone's holiday more memorable and enjoyable.

If your Thanksgiving gathering is anything like my family's, year after year, there is always that same small group of people who seem to take on most of the day's preparation and serving. If that's the case for you, consider switching things up this year. Whether it's enlisting new helpers to orchestrate the grocery lists, cook the food, set the tables, or even take on most of the clean-up, what better way to show appreciation for these loved ones than by giving them a well-deserved break? This is a wonderful way to give thanks to your own family. (And a pro tip if you end up cooking the turkey: don't forget it needs days to thaw out, not just a couple of hours!)

The best way to get started is by volunteering or donating whatever and wherever you can. Whether that's by collecting cans for your neighborhood food drive or distributing baked goods to people having to work on Thanksgiving (essential workers, firefighters, animal-shelter staff, etc.), there is never a gesture that is too small.

If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and show some love, check out sites such as VolunteerMatch for local opportunities near you. And remember: the more flexible you are in your role for the day, the more indispensable you will be as a volunteer!