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Health & Fitness

Beat the Holiday Blues! Volunteer!

In the midst of the holiday hustle and bustle have you been feeling like something is missing? We’re no strangers to the tricky work-life balance and when you add the holidays to the mix, life can get downright crazy. But believe it or not, adding volunteering will help your community and it can also help you de-stress.

Here are 5 easy tips to help you find a last-minute volunteer project. 

1) USE YOUR NETWORK

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Odds are that you have a presence on social media, much like our own. If this is the case, you probably have a network of family, friends and business colleagues. Tap into your network and ask around to see if anyone has any leads. Even better, try asking around on volunteer-driven social networks. VolunteerSquare.com has a volunteer-driven network specific to Fairfield County, and we’re always open to questions!

2) SEND OUT THAT RESUME

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Your office may be slowing down or closing for the holidays, but this is an important time for many of Connecticut's nonprofit agencies. They’re often busy even during office vacations bringing holiday cheer to those who need it, and they still need your help! Tune up your resume and then send it to your agency of choice. You might be surprised at what turns up.

3) DO A POP-IN

If you would prefer a more direct approach, simply stop by your agency of choice and ask about volunteer opportunities at the front desk. Agencies are busier than ever during the holiday season, and potential reinforcements at a moment’s notice may be a much-needed relief.


4) LOOK FOR OPEN EVENTS

During the holiday season there are a ton of volunteer opportunities involving food delivery, donation drives, gift-wrapping and more. Check us out on VolunteerSquare and on Facebook and Twitter where we bring you the most up-to-date info on local volunteer happenings.

5) MAKE YOUR OWN

If all else fails, why not create your own volunteer project? Contact your local food pantry like Neighbor-to-Neighbor in Greenwich and ask about organizing a can drive. Make snacks or festive treats for a senior living center or local shelter like Inspirica in Stamford. Organize a neighborhood cleanup with your friends.

Volunteering doesn’t always have to be a big, elaborate project – it can be a small act of kindness or two. We know no matter what you do, you can make a big difference. Plus, it’ll be good for your mind and your body, too!

If you’re local in Fairfield County, you can find backyard volunteer opportunities without having to break a sweat at VolunteerSquare. Sign up for our free, custom e-alerts so we can keep you posted on volunteer opportunities that matter to you. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook & Twitter, too!

 

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