Whether it’s buying charity Christmas cards or donating the money we would have spent on cards now more than ever charities need our help. But, with most households counting the pennies right now, our help doesn’t have to just be financial - time and effort can be equally as important.
With just a couple of clicks, your online Christmas shopping through Amazon Smile can ensure a portion of the purchase price is donated to the charity of your choice. Whether you want to help animals, the environment, or people in need there are some incredible apps and websites which offer both online and in-person opportunities.
If your gift is time, then check out gov.uk just type in your postcode, add your interests and you’ll be matched with volunteer opportunities locally such as working at vaccination centres, event work, drivers for the elderly or become a trustee or ambassador for organisations that need specialist help from people with marketing, teaching and legal backgrounds. The possibilities are endless - and a wonderful way to make new friends in your community.
If you’re happy to get a DBS check you could mentor children, teach them to read, tutor underprivileged kids or join a street crossing patrol.
Maybe you’re more scientific, in which case The Zooniverse might call your name. It’s the world’s largest and most popular platform for people-powered research and enables everyone to take part in real cutting edge research in many fields across the sciences, humanities, and more.
Not squeamish? Then donate blood or plasma. Register through the NHS at www.blood.co.uk.
If your skills are more creative you could offer to help out with design, digital marketing and advertising for a charity that needs some assistance.
You don’t even need to leave home to help the world be more accessible for blind and low-vision people through the Be My Eyes app that connects sighted volunteers and companies globally through a live video call. Or perhaps Amnesty Decoders appeals to you. It’s an innovative platform for volunteers around the world to use their computers or phones to help researchers sift through pictures, information and documents to aid in exposing human rights violations. Or take a look at Translators without Borders a global community of over 100,000 language volunteers offering language services to humanitarian and development organizations worldwide.
Foodbanks are really going to need our help this year. If you’re not in the position to add a few extras to your weekly shop, perhaps you could donate your time at a local food bank to collate and hand out much needed supplies. Check out the Foodbank app or go online to volunteer via The Trussell Trust.
Finally don’t forget the animals that work for us as guide dogs, rescue dogs, service horses or any kind of emergency support. The charity NFRSA looks after service dogs and horses who do not receive financial support for their ongoing care once they are retired.
We’ve compiled lots of Information on charities and philanthropy, with hyperlinks to volunteer. Visit
our resources page on our website www.twowomenchatting.com
Did you enjoy this article? Why not join the Two Women Chatting mailing list for regular updates.
Comments