Monday, November 22, 2010

To the Holiday Volunteers

As the holiday season and the end of the year quickly approach, I believe this is a time many people reflect on life, and express their thankfulness while trying to find purpose and meaning. This sentiment causes people to become naturally selfless and give of themselves. While this feeling and sudden urgency is commendable, we should not let a season dictate our civic engagement and philanthropic deeds.

As a nation, there is a huge trend to volunteer during the holidays. Please don’t misunderstand me; giving service at anytime is a tremendous gesture, but I’m here to challenge you. Start volunteering this holiday season, but don’t stop after Christmas. On Monday, January 3, when the holiday season passes, the homeless man will still be hungry, the middle school girl will still need your guidance, and the elementary school garden will still need beautification. We need your efforts year round. I challenge you to push yourself, and break from the culture of just holiday giving.

Of course, some people prefer to donate financially during the holiday season. If you are in a position to make a charitable donation to Hands On Charlotte, we hope you will visit our website today. Without your financial support during the holiday season, we would not be able to fund our service projects throughout the year.


Shari Lerline Williams is an AmeriCorps member with Hands On Charlotte

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