With Thanksgiving approaching, we start to gear up for the holidays. It is also the time of year to give to your favorite charity. Between now and the end of the year, there are many opportunities to give to those in need.
Thursday November 16th is Give to the Max Day in Minnesota. Every year many millions of dollars are donated to charities all over the state. Go to GiveMN.org to make a donation to your favorite charity. Most of our local charities are represented there.
The Salvation Army will also kick-off the Annual Red Kettle Campaign is this week. If we all just drop something in the kettle every time we pass one by, they will surely reach their goal. The Salvation Army is also doing the Angel Tree program. The goal is to make sure very child in need will get something for Christmas. You will also see Toys for Kids drop-off locations around the lakes area where you can buy a new toy and donate it to the cause. There is also the Be a Santa to a Senior program.
Cub Foods and the Salvation Army and Hubbard Radio have again teamed up for the Holiday Food Basket Program. You can make a donation to this program to ensure families will have a real holiday meal for Christmas. Stop into Cub Foods in Brainerd or Baxter, or Pequot Lakes Supervalu to make a donation. You can give any amount right at the checkout.
Our 30th Annual Radiothon to End Child Abuse is also coming up on December 7th and 8th. Last year, thanks to your generosity, we were able to raise over $100,000. We hope you will donate to the Radiothon again this year.
This year’s WalletHub survey rated Minnesota as the 3rd Most Charitable state. The rankings are based on both charitable giving and volunteer hours. This is certainly a source of pride for every Minnesotan. I am also very proud to live in what I consider one of the most generous communities in the state.
Volunteer hours are an important part of giving to those in need. There are countless volunteer opportunities in the lakes area every day, and during the holidays, ringing bells for the Salvation Army is one that everyone should try.
Whether you give money or time, I hope you have an opportunity to give back to this wonderful community during the holiday season, and truly experience the season of giving.