Top 10 Places to Volunteer This Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches and many of us are with loved ones reflecting on our blessings this year, there's no better way to give back than lending a helping hand in our community.

The greater Media community has many opportunities and ways you can give back throughout the year.

Here's our list of the top 10 places to give back this holiday season:

1. Fire Departments–All of our local fire companies, , and companies, and companies are all entirely made up of volunteers, and could always use committed residents in the community to help save neighbors from fires and medical emergencies. Stop by a fire station and see how you can help.
2. Local Food Bank– in Broomall is the headquarters for the Delaware County Interfaith Food Assistance Network and has been . This local food bank serves the community throughout the year and could use a helping hand months before and after the holidays. Also, check here for .
3. Libraries–Both the and could use lending hands, physically, by shelving books and helping out with their programs and activities.
4. Senior Citizens Center–Bayada Hospice of Media is looking for volunteers to help families and people with advanced illnesses. Fair Acres Center, a long-term care facility, welcomes group or individual volunteers.
5. Schools–There are plenty of parent volunteer opportunities at all our area schools. Nativity BVM Catholic School has a Dad's Club for those dads who want to more involved and the Home and School Association is always looking for volunteers no matter how much time you are able to commit. 
6. Blood Donations–While blood donations typically drop off during the holidays, the need for blood and blood products by hospital patients across our region remains constant, said the American Red Cross of Southeastern PA. The Wawa Corporation is having a blood drive from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Nov. 17. There will also be one on Dec. 14 at at 3:30 p.m. If you're not able to give blood, donate your time to the American Red Cross.
7. Historical Societies–The Media Historical Society cares for the Minshall House in Media Borough. It's always a great time to get involved with this organization.
8. Animal Rescue Shelters/Adoption Agencies–The is always in need of volunteers and foster or adoption homes. But if you don't have the spare time to play with some animals or aren't ready to adopt, you can always donate toys, food or other supplies they may need.   Animal-loving volunteers would also be a great asset to these organizations, including the in Newtown Square, P.A.L.S in Broomall organization, Luv-n-Bunns Rabbit rescue in Broomall.
9. Hospital-There are numerous ways to give at . Give a monetary donation, volunteer your time or even create a memorial or tribute gift in the name of a loved one.
10. Thrift Shops–At Riddle Thrift Shop, all proceeds benefit the hospital, so you can volunteer there while helping the sick at the same time.