As the weather gets colder and students begin to decorate their apartments with holiday decorations, the season of giving provides the perfect time to volunteer in the Austin community. The Daily Texan compiled a list of five organizations for those interested in giving back this holiday season.
Operation Turkey — 1500 Barton Springs Rd, Austin
Offering multiple locations around Austin, Operation Turkey has volunteers cook, package and deliver meals to the community on Thanksgiving between 8 a.m. and noon. Along with their two Austin locations, Operation Turkey also hosts the event in Cedar Park and Round Rock. The organization also holds its “Turkey Tailgate” the day before Thanksgiving, with volunteers preparing for the next morning by prepping turkeys.
Central Texas Food Bank — 6500 Metropolis Dr
The Central Texas Food Bank offers many different volunteering positions, including working in their warehouse, assisting in their community kitchen and distributing food through their mobile food pantry. Central Texas Food Bank’s website stated last year they helped provide nearly 54 million meals to the local community. Although planning to be closed on Thanksgiving, it will accept volunteers the Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday before.
Austin Police Operation Blue Santa — 4101 S Industrial Dr #260
Operation Blue Santa sources donations to deliver gifts, ensuring every child enjoys the holiday season. According to their website, the organization supports over 13,000 children, making volunteers essential to help package and distribute the gifts throughout November and December.
SAFE Holidays — 1401 Grove Blvd
Stop Abuse For Everyone offers many ways to volunteer, including donating toys, putting together Thanksgiving meal kits and organizing gifts. Offering shifts during the first half of December, as well as opportunities throughout November, SAFE also offers a sponsorship program. Those who are financially able can sponsor a family’s wishlist or create Holiday kits, such as a mini Christmas tree kit.
Austin Pets Alive! — 1156 W Cesar Chavez St
Perfect for animal lovers, volunteering at Austin Pets Alive! allows students to support their community while playing with cats and dogs. Volunteers choose one of nine departments to help. Options include the cat or dog program, shelter essentials, adoption, foster support and even online opportunities.
