How You Can Give Back Locally
BY KENDRA GEMMA
This is the time of year when our thoughts turn to helping others in our community. And while this is the season for giving, maybe it could become a resolution for you to continue paying it forward all year long.
What can you do to make an impact? Our local nonprofits can always use a cash donation, but that’s not the only way to contribute to their cause. Giving of yourself goes a long way – and it could make a significant difference in someone’s life. Look into volunteer opportunities that suit your talents and the available time you have. Sharing your favorite organization’s messages to friends and neighbors or via social media posts is another invaluable way to offer your support. You never know what kind of ripple effect it could have.
Whether you’re new to the area or you’re a long-time resident, it can be overwhelming deciding where to invest your time, money, and voice. The following list is by no means exhaustive, but it can get you started on your quest to give back. We’ve arranged them in categories to pair you with your passion.
Animals
Do you love four-legged friends? You’ll find no shortage of opportunities to care for pets and even larger animals in Manatee County. Two organizations to consider supporting are Dogs Inc. and Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare.
Palmetto-based Dogs Inc., formerly Southeastern Guide Dogs, raises and trains puppies to become guide, service, therapy, and skilled companion dogs for people throughout the country. Join the on-campus volunteer team, care for a puppy at home for a few days or longer, raise funds, or make a personal donation. Learn more at https://dogsinc.org/
An all-volunteer fundraising organization, Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare (FoMCAW) says their “goal is to enrich the lives of the Manatee County shelter animals.” They do just that through a variety of programs that provide medical care, transportation, and food to dogs and cats in need. Shop their Amazon wish list, give a cash contribution, or attend an event. Visit their website: https://fomcaw.org
Arts & Culture
On the stage or in a gallery, the local arts scene can’t thrive without volunteers, donors, and patrons.
If your interest lies more in the visual arts, Herrig Center for the Arts (previously known as ArtCenter Manatee) could be your perfect philanthropic match. Enroll in a class – from drawing to sculpture. Shop in the center’s LiveArtfully boutique that’s filled with primarily local artists’ work. Attend the monthly exhibitions – and post about them on your social media accounts. Volunteer as a greeter, special events committee member, or handyperson, to name a few opportunities. Become a member. Make a one-time donation or set up recurring or planned giving. Discover all the ways you can help: https://herrigcenter.org/
Are you more of a theater buff? Lend your talents to Manatee Performing Arts Center, either as a performer or behind the scenes. Audition for a role, build sets, sew costumes, or be a part of the technical crew. For those who would prefer to interact with theatergoers, volunteer in the box office, become a greeter or an usher, or even serve as a bartender during performances. You can also choose to make a donation for a specific benefit, such as costumes. Find out more: https://www.manateeperformingartscenter.com/
Education
Learning doesn’t always take place in a school classroom. You can help local students through several nonprofit organizations, including Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County and Take Stock in Children of Manatee County.
At Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County, children of all ages may receive subject-specific tutoring and homework assistance. Teens can also participate in career preparedness activities, and college and career advisors speak to them, as well as younger kids. You can volunteer in these capacities or help with other after-school activities, like sports, fine arts, and cooking. Learn more at http://www.bgcmanatee.org/
Take Stock in Children of Manatee County’s mission is “to create pathways to post-secondary education for students who face economic and systemic barriers.” The organization does this by providing scholarships, support services, and mentorship. Mentors are screened, trained, and then matched with a scholar to offer one-on-one guidance and encouragement. If you’re interested in applying to be a mentor, visit http://www.takestockmanatee.org/mentors
Both organizations gladly accept one-time and monthly donations.
Hunger & Homelessness
Food insecurity and homelessness affect many of our area’s most vulnerable residents. Fortunately, we have charities dedicated to these challenges.
Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee offers the home-delivered meals program its best known for and so much more, from an adult day center to Friendship Dining Centers for people 60 years old and up. The Food Bank of Manatee is also part of Meals on Wheels. Volunteers are needed on a regular basis for each of those programs, and you can also inquire about group volunteer opportunities. The organization also accepts monetary donations, food, and other items. Read more about Meals on Wheels PLUS: https://mealsonwheelsplus.org/
Turning Points is dedicated to preventing and reducing homelessness in Manatee County. Do you have a skill that would help their clients? You can sign up to volunteer as a barber/hairstylist, bike repairer, or healthcare professional. The organization also has opportunities that require less training, such as mailroom sorters and front desk assistant. Besides financial gifts, Turning Points appreciates group donations of personal care products, sneakers, and laundry detergent. Get more information at https://tpmanatee.org/
Explore these opportunities – and others in Manatee County – this season. Giving back, no matter how, will improve the lives of others, strengthen our community, and make you feel good, too. It’s a win-win-win.