It’s hard to believe the holiday season is upon us already. I’m grateful; the month of December always brings a renewed sense of generosity and hope to our region, as the weather turns cold and organizations work that much harder to meet the community’s needs.
There are holiday hampers to be filled and warming shelters to be opened. Often there’s a need for more emotional supports, transportation options, and family activities.
And in the spirit of the holidays, our remarkable community always answers the call.
This time of year, more people are compelled to donate to a fundraiser or volunteer. This could mean helping a local soup kitchen or community centre, donating gently-used clothes, or spending some extra time with a lonely someone.
You could sponsor a meal for a vulnerable person at Our Place Society, or package gifts for children through CFAX Santas Anonymous. You could become a Hamper Donor for the Victoria Women’s Transition House. These are just a sampling of options.
At the Victoria Foundation, December is one of the busiest times of year for our Philanthropic Services team. We’re always so glad to help facilitate charitable giving, as community members look to year-end giving opportunities.
For many who give, while there are twinkling lights and cheery music, the true happiness comes from the act of extending a hand to their neighbours.
This is why December marks a true season of hope. The doors to meaningful giving open even wider in our hearts.
Now, if you think holiday giving feels wonderful, imagine how you’d feel if you helped your neighbours throughout the rest of the year. That warm, satisfying altruism doesn’t need to be confined to the winter months. So many in our community have realized it feels equally good to give at any time of year. In fact, hundreds of non-profits and charities have been working diligently, around the clock, to enhance our region’s quality of life. Many of them have had help from our annual Community Grants Program, which is made possible by generous community members with an itch to give.
And when it comes to supporting the community, there’s much to choose from; causes dedicated to education, the environment, to sports and recreation. There are over a thousand registered charities in the capital region working to meet the community’s needs in all areas of well-being. Maybe the arts hold a special place in your life.
You could support wonderful non-profits like the Embrace Arts Foundation, which offers artistic opportunities for people with disabilities, or the Suddenly Dance Theatre Society, which enriches the lives of dancers and choreographers who love to perform in Greater Victoria.
I’m thankful for all those who take the season of hope as a reminder that the joys of philanthropy can be a year-round endeavour.
The spirit of giving is infectious, and our community can thrive when it endures. I invite you to take hold of it this season and let it guide you into the spring, summer, and beyond.
Sandra Richardson is CEO of the Victoria Foundation.
