Nothing feels quite as special as helping those in need. Each time the holidays roll around, we’re inspired to give back to our community and help those in need. If you’re not sure how to get involved, here are 9 amazing ways every LA girl can give back.
1. Volunteer
Vanderpump Dogs
Self-professed animal lover and Real Housewife of Beverly Hills Lisa Vanderpump began this organization to rescue our furry friends from the streets of LA. The store is always looking for volunteers to walk the dogs, check food and water levels, and assist potential adopters in the puppy play area.
Food on Foot
Food on Foot is a local charity that aims to provide clothes, food, jobs, and housing to the homeless of Los Angeles. You can volunteer by handing out food and clothing on Sundays. There is a $20 required donation, but trust us, helping those in need is absolutely priceless.
Senior Smiles
After attending a brief training session, Senior Smiles volunteers will be paired up with a senior to visit for one hour a week. There are lots of ways to spend your hour with your partner, whether it’s reading, playing games, or just chatting your companionship will mean a lot.
2. Become a Mentor
Source: Step Up
Step Up
Help teens on the path to higher education by becoming a mentor. Step Up is dedicated to helping girls in at-risk areas gain confidence and setting them on a path toward college and a successful career. There are after-school programs and group mentorship programs, so you’re sure to find a time that’s right for you.
3. Donate Blood or Plasma
American Red Cross
Head over to your nearest Red Cross donation center on the first, second, and fourth Monday of every month from 1:00-7:00pm.
UCLA Blood & Platelette Center
Every three seconds, someone needs blood. Donating blood takes only about an hour and provides much-needed help. Bonus: you get cookies and juice after you donate!
4. Plant a Tree
Tree People
Take a few hours of your weekend and plant a tree with Tree People! Planting events take place from 9:00am to 12:00pm in many different locations.
Photo: Tree People
5. Participate in a Walk
Walk for Hope
Walk for Hope supports research for cancers. Gather your friends and start a team! If you’re not able to participate in a walk, you can help prepare for the event.
6. Donate Supplies
Dress for Success
Toss your old suits, handbags, business garments, and jewelry together and bring them to a donation drive for Dress for Success, a not-for-profit organization focused on providing women in need with professional attire and support. Find your closest affiliate and get to cleaning out your closet!
Operation Gratitude
Operation Gratitude provides care packages to our troops in harm’s way. Donating items could not be any easier – they even have an Amazon wish list! No need to deal with shipping it yourself.
7. Support a GoFundMe
GoFundMe has thousands of causes that need your support. Whether you donate $5 or $500, your contribution and sharing with friends makes a difference.
8. Become a Foster Parent
Kitten Rescue West LA
It’s no secret that the homeless animal population in Los Angeles is booming. Rescue centers are always looking for foster parents to take the load off of overpacked kennels. Does bringing a kitten home to play with even count as volunteering?
Photo: Kitten Rescue West LA
9. Donate Money
Chrysalis
Chrysalis is a non-profit organization focused on providing resources for Los Angeles’ poor. Your monetary donation to Chrysalis goes helps finance tools for those on the job hunt, including preparation courses, mentoring, and resume assistance.
ACLU
If you’re strapped for time, donating money to the American Civil Liberties Union is a great way to give back and support causes that are meaningful to you.
To gear up for a full day of giving back, why not caffeinate with these 11 pretty LA lattes?
