No other time of the year captures the spirit of humanity than the holiday season. We look toward others and ask, “How can I help?” in hopes of bringing comfort to those in need.
It’s when the term “a sense of community” shines its beacon brightly. In the spirit of the holidays and the time of giving, I offer five ways to consider helping others in Seattle, King County and beyond ꟷ even when the giving is small.
Samaritan – Speaking of beacons, this app allows people in need to shine their virtual light with good Samaritans who offer a helping hand. People seeking assistance can share their personal story – sometimes accompanied by a specific request – with a Samaritan, who can respond with a matching deed or material goods. Samaritan, which is based in Pioneer Square, Seattle, calls on everyday people to step into someone’s difficult circumstances and walk with them – not walk by them. (The stories can be heart-breaking, heart-felt and filled with hope.) Samaritans have the option to grab lunch with a person in need, offer donations of clothing, arrange career training, give cash, provide temporary housing or offer other aid. It’s up to the Samaritan whether he/she wants to support an individual or make a general donation. More than 8,000 Seattle Samaritans have downloaded the app.
Northwest Harvest – If you’re a native of the Seattle area, you know how thousands of families and individuals have benefitted over the decades from the generosity of local people, businesses and other groups through Northwest Harvest. Donations of cash and food are accepted year-round, but the holiday time is of special importance. It’s the time of year when people truly open their hearts and wallets across our region. Staple items – including packaged goods, beverages, nuts, rice & grains – as well as fresh produce and baked goods are accepted. The food is distributed to more than 350 food centers in the Pacific Northwest. You’ll see donation stations across the region or check their website for more details.
Seattle Works – There is no better feeling when people help people – direct and personal. But how can you find an organization that meets your personal beliefs, plus allows to you help first-hand? The mission of Seattle Works is simple: connecting volunteers to organizations to build a better community. Match your interests with specific volunteering opportunities through the Seattle Works calendar.
John L. Scott Foundation – CEO Lennox Scott likes to note that he and the people working at John L. Scott Real Estate believe strongly in the company’s core value: Living Life as a Contribution ™. Founded over 20 years ago, the John L. Scott Foundation helps raise money for children’s healthcare in the Pacific Northwest. Through partner events and volunteerism by members of the John L. Scott family of brokers, staff and friends, the foundation has raised more than $15 million for children’s healthcare. Donating any amount will support the foundation and its mission of helping kids stay healthy and at home.
Real Rent Duwamish – Credit this city’s name to a leader of the Duwamish Tribe, Chief Sealth (also spelled Si’ahl and pronounced SEE-ah-le), who in 1855 signed a treaty with the original white settlers that called for the tribe to cede more than 50,000 acres of land to the new inhabitants in what is largely now Seattle. The U.S. government, as the tribe indicates, has never formally recognized the Duwamish nor has it been “justly compensated for their land, resources and livelihood.” Real Rent allows people to directly fund – or essentially provide “rent” to – the Duwamish in support of the tribe’s culture, visibility and vitality as a modern way of honoring the people who lived here first.
All five groups or organizations offer a unique opportunity for people to give back to others. In many cases, the company or organization that you work for generously matches your donation. Ask your manager or contact your employer’s HR department to see how they can pitch in to your favorite group, too.
And thank you for thinking of others.