Charlotte Happenings is your monthly guide to events and things to do in and around Charlotte, NC.
Issue link: http://charlottehappenings.epubxp.com/i/753156
he holiday season is all about giving, which makes donating your time and attention to a charitable organization a natural fit. Dozens of philanthropic groups are worthy of your energy, no matter which cause speaks to you most strongly. Here are ways your small acts of kindness can make a big difference in the city. T Make new friends at Hands On Charlotte If you're not strongly tied to one philanthropic mission in particular, check out Hands On Charlotte. The organization partners with agencies to tackle a wide variety of community needs. One night you could be assisting kids with math homework while the next night you're playing bingo with seniors. The group asks volunteers to attend a one-time training session, so check handsoncharlotte.org for a schedule. Help ease families' heartache with Hospitality House of Charlotte When a loved one is seriously ill, finding comfortable accommodations that allow family to stay nearby without sending them into a financial tailspin can seem nearly impossible. Hospitality House of Charlotte was created to fill this void. The facility provides a cozy atmosphere, delicious meals and emotional support for families facing illness.Volunteers at Hospitality House check guests in, attend to light housekeeping, pick up donations from area businesses and keep the kitchen clean, stocked and organized so the facility can run smoothly. Fill bellies and fuel inspiration through Hashtag Lunchbag The concept behind #hashtaglunchbag is simple: Give someone nourishment for the day while feeding hearts, too. The group meets on the first Saturday of the month to pack bagged lunches for hungry members of the community. Aside from just a sandwich, recipients find a handwritten note of encouragement waiting for them in their bags. People of all ages are welcome to come help. Check out hashtaglunch.org or @hashtaglunchbagcly for details. THREE TO SEE 1 2 3 FOR MORE ADVENTURES IN CHARLOTTE, VISIT CHARLOTTESGOTALOT.COM/FOLLOWYOURPASSION SAMARITAN'S FEET PHOTO BY MANNY HANDSOME DONATE YOUR TENDER LOVE AND CARE TO ANIMALS AT THE HUMANE SOCIETY OF CHARLOTTE If you're an animal lover looking to do some tail- wagging good, the Humane Society of Charlotte is a perfect place to start. You'll help with a wide assortment of essential tasks. This includes everything from filing and phone calls to animal interaction and care. humanesocietyofcharlotte.org includes more details on what the group is in need of now. FEED A COMMUNITY IN NEED THROUGH SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK OF METROLINA Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina is a major resource in our area's fight against hunger. Last year, the organization distributed more than 45 million pounds of food and grocery items to those in need. An hour of a SHFBM volunteer's time saves the group $21.79 in labor costs, so they're a crucial part of enabling the mission to continue. Volunteers help immensely by sorting, inspecting and boxing donations. START KIDS OFF ON THE RIGHT FOOT WITH SAMARITAN'S FEET Outfitting a child with a pair of shoes may seem like a simple act of kindness, but the implication is so much larger. Recipients are protected from diseases, can participate in school and enjoy a much-needed boost of self-esteem. Charlotte plays host to Shoes of Hope events, where individuals, groups, religious organizations and businesses come together to gift kids in need in the community with shoes as they share inspiration. WINTER 2016 77