As the end of the year approaches, our hearts turn towards the spirit of giving, and what better way to spread warmth and cheer than by volunteering with a nonprofit? Here are some opportunities to consider so you can make a positive impact in the community:
Join the Long Beach Turkey Trot 5K/10K Run/Walk
Image via Instagram: @rudd.justin
The Long Beach Turkey Trot 5K/10K, an event organized by Justin Rudd, is taking place on Thanksgiving morning in Belmont Shore. This charitable event is dedicated to supporting the Community Action Team (C.A.T.), a 501c3 nonprofit that focuses on projects related to animal, environmental, and youth welfare. Early registration is encouraged, with rates set at $40 for the 5K/10K until November 21, and $45 on/after November 22 (cash-only at packet pickup). The Long Beach Turkey Trot also encourages participants to bring canned goods like mac n cheese, breakfast cereal, canned fruit, tuna, or peanut butter for the AIDS Food Store. With two start times at 7:30 a.m. and 9 a.m., participants of all ages can take part in this invigorating run along the scenic beach path. Additionally, children ages 12 and under can join the 1/2-Mile Wingding, with separate races for different age groups.
To participate in this event, visit justinrudd.com/trot.html.
Serve Salvation Army Residents a Warm Thanksgiving Meal
Stock image via canva.com
Give the gift of a warm Thanksgiving meal at The Salvation Army Bell Shelter on Nov. 23 by volunteering for various shifts including set up, meal service, and clean up. Volunteers for the set-up shift (9 a.m.-11 a.m.) will be responsible for setting tables with tablecloths, placemats, cutlery, and other decorations. The meal service shift (11 a.m.-2 p.m.) involves hosting 1-2 tables and serving residents their drinks, meals, and desserts. Clean-up (2-3 p.m.) will focus on gathering all trash, breaking down chairs and tables, and cleaning up the area. The only requirements for volunteers needed for this event are the ability to lift up to 15 lbs and the heart to help others.
To sign up for a shift, visit the Salvation Army Volunteer Site.
Volunteer at the LA Foster Children Holiday Toy Distribution
Stock image via canva.com
Spread holiday cheer by volunteering at the LA Foster Children Holiday Toy Distribution event on December 19, 2023. Hosted by the TEACH 1 REACH 1 FOUNDATION, this event provides foster children and their families with toys, gifts, clothing, sneakers, and more. Volunteers can choose from two shifts: 10:00 AM to 03:00 PM or 03:00 PM to 09:00 PM. A driver’s license is needed for volunteering, along with orientation or training.
Sign up to volunteer at VolunteerMatch.
Prepare and Distribute Meals for the Homeless with Gay for Good
Image via gayforgood.org
Join Gay for Good in their outreach effort to feed the hungry in Downtown Long Beach on Sunday, November 26th, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Volunteers will be involved in prepping, packaging, and distributing nearly 200 meals at the First Congregational Church of Long Beach. Volunteers must be 14 years or older and accompanied by an adult if under 18. Those with long hair are advised to have it pulled back, and closed-toed shoes with good grip are recommended. Additionally, volunteers should wear a face mask and be prepared for a kitchen setting. Gay for Good is partnering with Urban Community Outreach, an organization dedicated to providing respite, nutrition, opportunity, and hope to the economically disenfranchised and homeless people in Long Beach.
Sign up to volunteer at G4G OC/Long Beach + Urban Community Outreach.
Put Together Care Packages for the Homeless
Flyer obtainted from
Councilwoman Suely Saro’s city newsletter.
On November 11th at 10 a.m., GP Care Packages & Blankets of Love is seeking volunteers to assist in putting together care packages at 2126 Cedar Ave. Since 2014, this organization has been providing care packages and blankets to people facing homelessness. Their mission is to bring comfort to those in need and to affirm their worth by ensuring they know they are cherished, achieved through the distribution of these care packages. GP Care Packages & Blankets of Love will host a separate event on Dec. 9 to give out the packages, but the need for volunteers for that event has not yet been announced.
For more information or to join as a volunteer, contact GP Care Packages & Blankets of Love at their website.
