There is something about the holiday season that gets people interested in helping out in their community. Whether you’re a student wanting service hours or a good person offering your time, there are many volunteer opportunities worthy of checking out.
A favorite of many past Beta Club members would be volunteering at the Festival of Trees. The event is held at the Orr Building of the Illinois State Fairgrounds and benefits the Memorial Medical Center. With specially designed Christmas trees, gingerbread houses, and community entertainment, it’s a great way to get in the holiday spirit. Volunteers are needed to decorate and sell gingerbread cookies, assist children with crafts, sell tickets for the holiday train, and much more. The Festival of Trees is open Saturday, November 19 through Sunday, November 27. Check out their website* for an online registration form to volunteer.
Another great volunteer opportunity this winter is to bell ringing. Working in two hour shifts, you and a small group of friends can ring the bells and ask strangers to donate to your kettle. These bright red kettles are placed in front of many Springfield area stores, including Macy’s, Schnuck’s, and Walmart. All profits from the kettles will be donated to Springfield’s Salvation Army to help serve meals and gifts to needy families over this holiday season. Volunteers are needed to cover shifts over November 11 through December 24. Check out their website** to get involved.
* www.memorialmedical.com/MMF/Festival-Of-Trees/Volunteers.aspx
** www.tsaspringfield.org
Melissa Studach
-The Cardinal
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