Thanksgiving is a time for family and friends to spend time together and reflect on all of the good and cherished blessings in their lives. For some who are less fortunate, Thanksgiving can be a reminder of the struggles and tribulations some families find themselves in due to the economy, loss of work and many other situations. There is no better time of the year to show those who need help how much you care than Thanksgiving. Volunteering with local charities around El Cajon and San Diego is a wonderful way to give back to those who have less during the holidays. Here is a list of some local charities who could use your help to help others during the Thanksgiving holiday.

by U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

America Red Cross

The American Red Cross is a disaster relief organization that helps victims suffering from house fires to hurricanes. They also teach life saving services such as CPR and offer support to active duty military and their families. There are many ways that your can help this great organization as a volunteer. However, one special event that they are sponsoring during the holidays is Holiday Mail for Heroes where you can make cards and send them to active duty military overseas. This is a wonderful program that is sure to offer a little comfort to a soldier far from home. To volunteer your time this Holiday season, visit your local Red Cross at 564 North 2nd Street, El Cajon, California or give them a call at (800) 500-6411.

Meals-On-Wheels

Meals-On-Wheels is a great volunteer organization that delivers hot meals to senior citizens who are not able to travel outside of their home without difficulty. The volunteers are essentially a lifeline for the seniors they serve because oftentimes, the volunteer is the only person the senior will see in a whole day. Meals-On-Wheels is in great need of volunteers for the Thanksgiving season and what better way to give of your time. To volunteer, visit your local Meals-On-Wheels at 195 East Douglas Avenue, El Cajon, California or give them a call at 619-447-8782.

Habitat for Humanity

To provide a home for those less fortunate is the mission of Habitat for Humanity. This organization operates under the conviction that every family deserves a home to live in that provides a safe environment. Local volunteers come together and give of their time to build homes for families who have none. Such a great gesture can make all the difference in the lives and futures of a family that might not have a very positive future without this help. To know that you were involved in providing a home for children without one is an unforgettable experience. To be a part of this wonderful organization visit them at 10222 San Diego Mission Road, San Diego, California or give them a call at 619-283-4663.

Putting the Giving in Thanksgiving

No matter which organization you choose to volunteer your time with this Thanksgiving season, the important part is that you do volunteer and give back to the community you live in. With just a small gift of time, effort and kindness, you can remind those less fortunate that there are good people who want to help and give someone a reason to be thankful this Thanksgiving.