Ways to give back this festive season
‘Tis the season of giving and what better way to spread some festive cheer than giving back to the community?
This year DofE participants gave 3.5 million hours of volunteering in their local communities. So, whether it’s donating to a local food bank, checking in on your elderly neighbours or supporting your favourite charity, here are five ways you can give back this December.
1. Support a charity
There are lots of ways to support your favourite charity this season. Many charities offer all sorts of fundraising and campaigning opportunities. You can also give one-off or monthly donations to your chosen charity.
If you would like to make a donation to The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award charity, you can donate here. With your support more young people can take part in a life-changing DofE programme.
2. Donate to a food bank
If you’ve been to a supermarket lately, it’s likely that you will have seen a food donation bank that supports local charities to donate food to people in crisis. Food banks are an easy way of giving back to your local community, by purchasing one extra item in the supermarket you’re helping someone in need. Don’t forget to research before what items are needed the most in your area.
If you would like to set up your own food bank, you can download our 13-week programme here.
3. Check in on elderly people
While December is filled with friends and family, it can also be a lonely season for some people. If you can, try to check in on the vulnerable, elderly people – whether it’s a neighbour, a family member or through volunteering for a charity like Age UK. A phone call or dropping in for a cup of tea can go a long way.
4. Look for local volunteering opportunities
The festive season is a great time to start thinking about volunteering for your local community. No matter how big or small, there is always something you can do to make a positive change in your community. We have lots of 13-week programmes available for you. Whether it’s helping to combat youth homelessness or single-use plastic, the programmes are a great start!
5. Do something kind for someone else
Although it may seem like a small thing, doing something kind for someone else can make a huge difference. Whether it’s paying a stranger an unexpected compliment or helping a neighbour with their shopping – a small act of kindness is a great way to give back this festive season.
Why not take inspiration from our blog and see how young people have been making the world a kinder place through their DofE.
Remember, no matter how big or small, December is a great time to give back and feel inspired by those around you. Let us know how you get on over on our social channels!
