The holiday cheer + jeer brings out the best in everyone, especially in LAL. The gift of giving keeps on giving, and the best way to participate is by volunteering your time to help those in need. Even if you feel that you’re too stressed or busy to volunteer this year, getting out and volunteering has shown to help combat stress, anxiety + depression.

So whether you’re doing it for yourself or for the betterment of your city, we applaud you. To help find your fit, we have compiled a list of eight places that you can either volunteer your time or your resources to help individuals + families during the season of giving.

🤝 VISTE | Their mission is to enable the elderly to remain safely and independent in their own homes.

🤝 Parker Street Ministries | They will be hosting their annual Neighborhood Christmas Store, in which more than 2,000 toys + 300 volunteers are needed. Please plan for your family’s holidays with a Parker Street family in mind, and help make Neighborhood Christmas Store happen here.

🤝 PACE Polk | The foundation of PACE is their gender-responsive culture, where they provide a safe environment that celebrates young women. Learn how you can help the girls of PACE this holiday season.

🤝 Lighthouse Ministries | Whether it involves working in the kitchen, at the front desk, sorting clothes at the thrift shop, giving someone a haircut, or preparing and handing out food boxes, partnering with Lighthouse provides many opportunities to help those in need.

🤝 Florida Baptist Children's Homes | Their vision is to bring hope and show that love has the power to impact the life of one more child. Learn how you can be apart of their vision.

🤝 Lakeland Regional Health Foundation | The Lakeland Regional Health Foundation has supported Lakeland Regional Health’s work to deliver nationally recognized healthcare, strengthen the health of the community, and advance the future of healthcare for those it serves. Learn about getting involved.

🤝 Eckerd Connects Project Bridge | Eckerd Connects Project Bridge provides transitional services to boys and girls ages 11 - 21 reintegrating back home after juvenile justice residential commitment programs. Project Bridge provides educational, mentoring + transportation services to help young people achieve stable lives and avoid re-entry into the criminal justice system. Learn about their wish list + needs.

🤝 SPCA Florida Adoption Center | Dedicated to improving the lives of pets and people in the community, SPCA Florida provides care, compassion + hope to more than 4,000 homeless animals. Learn how you can help LAL animals.

If your heart is full of cheer, then make sure to share it with someone in need this holiday season. Giving back is the best way to show you care, so keep these organizations in mind. Whether it be giving your time or your resources, any amount counts.

- Trevor, LALtoday intern