WASHINGTON — Thanksgiving is right around the corner. In addition to giving thanks, you may want to give back. There are several opportunities to volunteer your time or donate to worthy causes on or around the holiday in D.C., Maryland and Virginia. Here are some options:
D.C.
Holiday Helpings: Bread for the City is calling for volunteers and donations for its Holiday Helpings program, which provides a turkey, pantry holiday staples and fresh produce to those in need. You can volunteer to assemble and distribute bags, donate money or purchase Holiday Helpings merchandise.
Everything But The Turkey: Edlavitch DCJCC and DC Central Kitchen will prepare thousands of meals for people who are food insecure. There are still spots to set up for the event, which will include organizing materials, sanitizing utensils and measuring spices.
Seat at the Table: Ahead of the holiday, Central Union Mission is asking for monetary donations to help with its Thanksgiving meal distribution.
Maryland
Refugees' First Thanksgiving: The African Community Center of the DC Metro's annual dinner is Nov. 19. Last year, the dinner hosted over 500 attendees.
Turkey Chase Charity Race: Run, walk, swim or bike at the 41st Annual Turkey Chase Charity Race, put on by the YMCA Bethesda-Chevy Chase and the Bethesda Chevy Chase Rotary. Proceeds will go to support youth development programs.
Fresh Food Drive: FRESHFARM is in need of volunteers to raise money and hand out samples of warm apple cider at its farmers markets. There are also opportunities in D.C. and Virginia.
Virginia
Arlington Turkey Trot: Run or walk through Lyon Park and Ashton Heights to support local nonprofits. Make sure to register by Nov. 19.
Britepaths' Holiday Program: Sponsor a family's holiday meal through a monetary donation.
Alexandria Turkey Trot: Take a jog or stroll through Del Ray. It's family and dog friendly, and proceeds will go to ALIVE! Food Hubs.