Discover heartwarming ways to give back in Los Angeles this holiday season

As the holiday season unfolds, Los Angeles becomes a hub of generosity and community spirit. This year, the city offers a myriad of opportunities for residents to give back, ranging from toy drives to volunteering events. These initiatives not only bring joy to those in need but also foster a sense of unity and compassion among Angelenos.

Toy Drives: Spreading Joy to Children

The holiday season in Los Angeles kicks off with a series of toy drives aimed at bringing smiles to children’s faces. On December 1st, the Ventura County chapter of the Die Hard Bolt Club, an L. A. Chargers fan club, hosts a toy drive specifically for children affected by the recent Mountain Fire. This event takes place at the Sonesta Select Camarillo, inviting participants to bring an unwrapped toy starting at 10 a.m.

Continuing the spirit of giving, the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station organizes the Stuff-A-Van toy drive on December 4th at Costco in Westlake Village. Participants are encouraged to contribute unwrapped toys between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. On December 7th, the Valley Inn in Sherman Oaks hosts a holiday toy drive benefitting LA Family Housing, where donations are accepted from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Volunteering and Fundraising Events

Beyond toy drives, Los Angeles offers numerous volunteering opportunities. From December 9th to 13th, the Sickle Cell Disease Foundation organizes a holiday gift wrapping event at their Ontario location. Volunteers can participate from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays, with shorter hours on Friday. Similarly, the YMCA San Gabriel Valley hosts a holiday gift wrapping party on December 13th, welcoming volunteers from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

A unique fundraising event, the Wild at Heart Horse Rescue’s Jingle Bell Trot, takes place on December 14th in Lancaster. This event supports the retraining and rehoming of owner-surrendered horses. Participants can register for the 5K walk/run at 8 a.m., with the trot starting at 9 a.m. The entrance fee is $20, or $40 with a T-shirt.

Ongoing Volunteering Opportunities

For those seeking ongoing volunteer work, Project Angel Food offers a chance to prepare and deliver meals to individuals impacted by serious illness. Volunteers are needed Sundays through Fridays, with shifts available in the morning and afternoon. No culinary skills are required, making this an accessible opportunity for many.

Additionally, the L. A. County Library presents a unique chance to volunteer from home. The library seeks individuals to transcribe historic letters sent to the Office of Indian Affairs during California’s early statehood years. This project allows volunteers to engage with history while contributing to the preservation of important documents.

Our Advice on the City

Los Angeles, with its vibrant community and diverse population, offers countless ways to engage in meaningful activities during the holiday season. Whether you’re a local or visiting, participating in these events provides a deeper connection to the city and its residents.

In conclusion, Los Angeles is a city that thrives on community involvement and generosity. For occasional travelers, consider joining a local event to experience the city’s unique spirit of giving. For seasoned travelers, delve deeper by exploring lesser-known neighborhoods and discovering the grassroots organizations that drive change in the community.

This holiday season, let Los Angeles inspire you to make a difference, one act of kindness at a time.