How to Give Back This Holiday Season

There are few things more rewarding than giving a gift that's meaningful in someone else's life. So, when compiling your holiday gift list this year, make sure to leave a little room to give the greatest gift of all: charity.

We took the hard work out of charitable giving this year by compiling this list of local charities and non-profits that will welcome your time and donations with open arms. Let us help you make a difference this holiday season.

Adopt-a-Family 

•  Saint Jude Catholic Church - Many families will go without this holiday season, but a lucky few will get to celebrate the Christmas of their dreams through programs like this one. As a sponsor, you will buy gifts and food for a local family.
• Calvary Community Church  - Bring new toys and non-perishable food items to the church by December 4, and they will be distributed to the needy.
• Temple Adat Elohim - There are many volunteer opportunities availiable throught this local temple, including monetary and food donations, as well as spending time with those who will be alone.

Feed the Hungry

• Meals on Wheels - Donate or volunteer to deliver a meal to a hungry senior. The food will be a welcomed gift, but your time will prove invaluable. You can also purchase a wreath or Christmas tree to be delivered directly to someone's home.
• Manna Food Bank - Take your pick of many different ways to volunteer at the Conejo Valley Food Bank this year. You can collect and deliver food, work in the pantry or escort families through the facility to collect food.
• Los Angeles Mission - Volunteer time, donate resources or sponsor meals to this worthy cause, which significantly effects change in the lives of the destitute and homeless.

Various

• Soldier's Angels - There are many individuals who will not be able to enjoy even the simplest of comforts this holiday season. Soldiers and their families sacrifice to protect our country every day, so take this opportunity to say "thank you." You can send a card, adopt a family, help with postage to send gifts over seas and more.
• Agoura Animal Shelter - If you have the time to spend at our local animal shelter, the dogs and cats there will most certainly appreciate it, and you'll walk away feeling warm and fuzzy inside. If you can't commit to spending time at the shelter, stop by to pluck a card from their holiday wish tree and drop off a donation.
• Senior Living Facilities - Many local senior living facilities, like the Agoura Hills Senior Retreat, are always looking for caring individuals who can stop by and spend time with their residents. If you have the time, the gift of companionship to the elderly will be greatly appreciated.
• Volunteer Match - This list is just a sampling of the ways you can help those less fortunate this holiday season. For more opportunities, check out VolunteerMatch.org where you can search by location or keyword to find the program that warms your heart.