The holidays bring joy and connection while highlighting organizations that spread cheer to others. Local charities work throughout December to bless others and make the holiday season sweeter. If you’re looking for ways to give back this season, check out these organizations and their efforts.
Charleston Rotary Club: Each December, members partner with the Salvation Army to ring bells in various areas, From King Street to Marion Square, you may see them out and about this season. The club hosts special Christmas lunch for residents of Ansonborough House each year. Former Mayor John Tecklenburg plays piano as Rotary volunteers serve food and sing carols. Each resident receives a Harris Teter gift card and a handwritten Christmas card. “Its a small gestune that means al lot,” says Rotary member Karla Combs. She notes that the club actively recruits more women members if you’re interested in helping. Learn more or inquire about membership: charleston-rotary.org
Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina: Each season, troops organize “Take Action Projects,” in which they identify community needs and serve in various ways. During the holidays, many troops visit assisted living facilities to sing carols, deliver homemade cards and sprinkle Christmas joy everywhere they go. Denise Flanigan from the organization encourages folks to find their local troop and get involved. Donate or get involved: girlscoutsesc.org
Magdalene House of Charleston: The organization operates a storefront featuring handmade goods crafted by its residents. If you’re looking for beautiful, unique Christmas gifts and want to support a worthy cause, look no further. Each purchase helps sustain programs that support women overcoming addiction. Learn more: magdalenehouseofcharleston.org
HALOS of Charleston: Children in kinship care are those raised by relatives rather than parents. HALOS strives to support and uplift these families. Each year, it organizes a holiday gift drive. Last year, more than 1,300 children were impacted, and they could use your help this year. Details: charlestonhalos.org
Be A Mentor: If you’re looking fora gift that will go a long way this holiday season, consider donating your time. Be A Mentor partners with local schools to match students in meaningful ways. While the organization always accepts donations, giving a gift in honor of someone may be the most heartfelt gesture this holiday season. Your generosity and impact can continue long past the holidays with this organization. Learn more: beamentornow.org
This is not a comprehensive list, but it’s a great place to start if you want to give back in the Lowcountry.
By Cari Lawson