One of my favorite holiday traditions is giving back to the community. Whether it’s donating canned goods to local food banks, providing gifts through adopt-a-family programs, or volunteering to serve holiday meals at local shelters, there are numerous ways to brighten someone’s holiday season and make a meaningful impact.
As the Community Impact Manager at SAFE, I have the privilege of collaborating with a wide range of nonprofits and community organizations dedicated to supporting people of all ages and backgrounds. At SAFE, we practice a philosophy centered on “For What’s Good” that guides us in finding ways to make impactful and positive change for residents and families throughout the Sacramento region.
Here are a few ways to help others during the holidays.
Food Drives and Donations
The holiday season often brings the comfort of a warm meal, but for many families, access to basic food essentials can be a challenge. Numerous organizations in the Greater Sacramento region strive to ensure families have access to the food they need. This holiday season, SAFE hosted a canned food collection drive in early December at all our branches and at the California Aerospace Museum. If you’re looking to support organizations in similar ways, here are some to consider assisting.
Alchemist Community Development Corporation
Adopt-A-Family
Consider helping families directly through Adopt-A-Family programs. SAFE partnered with Saint John’s Program for Real Change to provide gifts and essential items to families during the holiday season, and engaged our staff in the shopping experience. Invite your friends, family, and colleagues to pool resources to help another family have a brighter holiday. The following organizations hold Adopt-A-Family programs in the Sacramento area.
Saint John’s Program for Real Change
Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Program
Keaton’s Child Cancer Alliance
Volunteer at a Homeless Shelter
There are plenty of volunteer and donation opportunities year-round at homeless shelters to help those facing hardship in our community. During the holidays, volunteers may be needed to serve holiday meals, sort warm clothing, and distribute food and personal care items. Here are some shelters and organizations to consider.
As a not-for-profit financial cooperative, SAFE understands how collaboration boosts the impact of philanthropy. SAFE gives around $400,000 a year to the community through grants, scholarships, volunteerism, and direct giving to nonprofits and community organizations that provide programs that support financial education, workforce development, youth and young adult education, and affordable housing.
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