With Thanksgiving around the corner, the day of gratitude, and Christmas shortly after, the day of gifting, it’s officially the giving season. That time of year when the world becomes a brighter place as we think of others before we think of ourselves. There’s even an entire day dedicated towards selflessness, celebrated worldwide, called Giving Tuesday. But when it comes to giving back, somehow, our minds immediately go toward monetary giving. Fortunately, you don’t need to donate money to make a difference.
Here are four easy ways you can give back this giving season, that won’t cost you a dollar (unless you want it to).
Organize a beach clean-up
Our oceans are a year-round resource. Sure, the crowds may disappear as the temperatures drop. But shorelines can be appreciated any day, any time, and in any type of weather. While the summer months might be the more ideal time to do some cleaning, this giving season organize a cold weather beach (or coastal) clean-up. You can gather with a small group, friends, and family, or encourage your community to join in. All you need are gloves and small collecting bins to put the trash into.
Playa Tip: To make it more fun, head to your local Playa Bowls after the clean-up and celebrate with a snack or smoothie!
Volunteer your time
Organizations of all kinds rely on two kinds of generosity: money and time. And while money might be the most obvious way to give back, volunteering your time or experience to a cause can do more good than you realize. Plenty of nonprofits need help in their day-to-day efforts, from being hands-on to those they support to the behind-the-scenes work. You can help make sandwiches, join a support line, organize items, and so much more. And if you have a particular skill or job, you can lend your experience there as well (artwork, writing, spreadsheets, phone calls). When it comes to volunteering, a little bit can go a long way this giving season.
Donate winter clothes
Cold temperatures impact everyone, but not all of us are fortunate enough to have clothes to keep warm. As you switch out your closet, dive into some of the gently used items you either outgrew or no longer wear. You can take your winter gloves, jackets, sweaters, or really anything warm, to a local clothing donation drop or organization. It’s a simple act that will warm you up as much as it does others!
Playa Tip: We come out with new Playa swag every season. Consider donating clothes in your closet to make room for that new Playa hoodie or sweatshirt you’ve had your eye on.
Join us in Move for Hunger
At Playa Bowls, we have always placed an emphasis on community. Each of our locations takes pride in hiring locals, teaming up with local organizations, and returning the love we get every day.
That’s why this giving season we’re teaming up with the non-profit Move for Hunger to help make a small difference in the lives of others. The next time you head over to your local Playa location we encourage you to consider donating a non-perishable food item to help a hungry person in need.
Do you still have a craving for all things pumpkin? So do we. This week, through November 19th, sip on something special. Every time you order a Pumpkin Pie Smoothie Playa Bowls will donate all proceeds directly to Move for Hunger.
“Since 2009, we’ve helped transport nearly 30 million pounds of food, which is equivalent to 25 million meals. We strive every day to find where food needs to be rescued and get it in the hands of communities who need it most. Our organization started by asking the simple question, ‘Do you want to donate your food when you move’ and over the past 13 years, we’ve expanded our reach to rescue food from farms, food manufacturers, grocery stores, and so much more to feed those in need,” Adam Lowy, Move For Hunger Executive Director and Founder.
So, however you choose to give back this giving season be sure to refuel your efforts at a local Playa Bowls. And know that every Playa Babe and Bro is cheering you on!