Christmas Dinner (Getty Images)

The holidays are special for so many reasons. We celebrate with family and friends, take part in traditions, and experience the city in a new way as holiday events pop up all over town. The holidays are also a time to give back to the community and invest in those around us. Alongside the shopping, eating, and caroling, we want to make time for those who need an extra helping hand. Fortunately, there are many opportunities to give back this time of year. These tips will help you find the perfect way to spread some holiday cheer throughout the Pittsburgh community.

Remember, There are Many Ways to Give

First and foremost, it’s important to remember that giving during the holiday season does not come in one shape or size. For some families, donating items like toys or food is a way they can make the season memorable for others. For some groups, the best way to give back to the community is through a gift of their time. Volunteering to help with administrative tasks, spread the word, or set up events can be an excellent way to meet neighbors who share a common love for our city. Many organizations, like Play it Forward, need help in many different ways during the holidays, so your options are abundant.

Check General Event Calendars

Places like Eventbrite often have events and fundraisers that are hard to find separately. You can sort for “charity & causes” to see which items fit the bill. You’ll be able to find lots of holiday events, like photos with Santa, that double as fundraisers for a specific cause. If you cannot attend the posted event, but want to help the organization, call them directly and ask about other volunteer opportunities! The central Pittsburgh Cares calendar is also an excellent hub for volunteer opportunities. If you don’t see something that coincides with the holidays, browse organizations that often need assistance and see if they have any unlisted needs.

Always Ask for Options

The holidays are a popular time for giving back, so many events may already be full. Don’t be discouraged! If you find an organization or event you’re passionate about, contact the staff and ask for other options to get involved beyond the listed event. For example, if food bank shifts are booked, ask if you can help hand out fliers, collect donations in your neighborhood, or bring coffee and hot cocoa to volunteers as they work. Being proactive will open up new opportunities for helping the community.

Search for Tailored Opportunities

Some volunteer events are open to a wide range of people; all ages and skill levels are welcome and needed. If you have a unique group or skill set, you’ll find the best chances to give back if you search with those qualities in mind. Families with young children can take advantage of groups like VolunTOTs and Kidsburgh to find volunteer opportunities that even the littlest kids will enjoy. If you have a unique talent you’d like to use to give back, contact a group that might need that skill and see how you can help. For example, musicians can always help set the mood at events ranging from hospital toy drives to charity banquets. If you’d like your time or money to support specific communities, seek out organizations that can connect you with those groups. Directories like this listing of Black and minority-owned businesses in Pittsburgh are an excellent place to start.

Be Prepared for Some Red Tape

If you’re hoping to volunteer with specific populations this season, especially children, be prepared for some red tape. Background checks and other state verification may be required in certain situations for the safety of participants. These security steps are usually quick and easy, and many organizations have FAQ sheets to help walk you through the process. If you’d rather avoid this kind of paperwork, ask organizations about their credential process before you commit.

Use Social Media

Social media is one of the best ways to find volunteer opportunities. Follow well-known charity organizations, like the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, or local hospitals and senior centers to get updates about events that need volunteers. Local news and radio stations also obtain information from countless organizations every holiday season and often post these opportunities on their social media.

Walk Around Town, Attend Your Favorite Events

One of the best ways to find opportunities to give back is to start with your favorite events and locations. Think about previous holiday seasons and recall events that were special for your family or left a meaningful impression. Most holiday happenings need volunteers, so contact the organizers to see if they can use help. Holiday performances often use volunteer ushers, food trucks set up at community events need support, and small businesses running special sales can always use volunteers to spread the word. Need more inspiration? Take a walk around downtown or your neighborhood and look for marquees that announce holiday meals, toy drives, or charity events. You’ll be able to walk right in and ask how you can help!

Regardless of how you volunteer this time of year, remember that sharing your time, money, or self with the community will continuously strengthen us.