Thinking of ways to give this Thanksgiving? Already, it’s time to make turkey themed crafts and tug on sweaters. So, whatever your feelings on this sometimes controversial holiday, now is time to be thankful for all we have, a time to think of others. What better family tradition is there than giving? We as parents have an obligation to teach community as a priority, a habit, not an afterthought or an “I’d like to.” No matter your budget, schedule, interest, or beliefs, there is a way in Columbia for every family to give. And, it’s even fun!
Below, you’ll find a list of opportunities to give to a number of different causes in a number of different ways throughout the month of November.
Dance to Make a Difference
Dance for Venezuela at the Blue Moon Ballroom to help provide food and basic items for the residents in this country who are in a current state of emergency. Prices vary from $10 – $60. Optional lessons begin November 3, with the event taking place throughout the day on November 4 – 5.
OR burn some calories before the big meal at Zumbathon for Puerto Rico at the Jewish Community Center to help the victims of Hurricane Maria. Join 24 of the best local Zumba instructors and over 100 of your closest friends and neighbors. Cost is just $10. This one is from 2 – 3:30 p.m. on November 5.
Party for a Cause
Pumpkin Kisses Harvest Wishes is a fall festival event for families with the goal of ending Alzheimers. This event is Sunday, November 5 from noon – 6 p.m. at The Backyard Cafe in West Columbia. Best of all, admission is FREE! There will be food, music, games and more.
On the other hand, if you’re up for a date night, join The Hampton Room at Michael’s on Main Street, November 19 from 6 – 9 p.m. for Columbia Thanks Living – which includes a six course meal with wine! Prices are $35 and benefit Cotton Branch Farm Animal Sanctuary.
If you really want to go all out in black tie, you can participate in Palmetto Health Foundation’s annual Festival of Trees. The auction preview night is held at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center on November 17 from 7 – 10 p.m. and includes delicious food and drinks, festive holiday entertainment and a visit with Old St. Nick. Guests will have the first opportunity to bid on fabulous holiday gifts and exquisite holiday decor, from snow-frosted wreaths adorned with holly to shimmering trees garnished with golden tinsel. Tickets are $125 and proceeds go towards raising funds for pediatric care.
Get Outdoors
Keep the Midlands Beautiful Service Day is sponsored by the COR Columbia Opportunity Resource. By adopting one of the main thoroughfares (Gervais Street in between Harden and Assembly) in Columbia, COR is able to help beautify a very visible part of the city. Meet at their office downtown on Gervais Street at 8:30 a.m. on November 18. Safety gloves and reflective vests will be provided.
In Irmo, on November 5, Hemophilia of South Carolina Turkey Trot is a 5k to cure Hemophilia and also collects food bank donations. Race registration includes t-shirt, walk bag, run/walk medals, refreshments, DJ fun, face painting, awards and costume contests!
Give Food
Now, many of us are getting ready to prepare feasts for our families. Meanwhile, many moms in our area are worried about their children’s next meal. Remember, hunger is not always visible. Harvest Hope Food Bank offers an easy way to sponsor a family in need for as little as $20.
Likewise, Oliver Gospel Mission, which provides food, shelter, and resources for the homeless, takes Thanksgiving donation boxes at their Taylor street location.
Alternatively, take some time to provide tutoring, meals, and/or activities for the children at Palmetto Place. This organization provides a safe and supportive environment for children and teens who have faced abuse, abandonment, neglect and/or homelessness.
Shopping for a Cause
Operation Christmas Child is taking collections in November. This is your chance to pack a shoe box full of goodies and personal items as a Christmas present for a child in need! Send fun and useful things to your choice of a girl or boy by age group. Once you are packed, drop off your box at a designated location.
The Junior League Holiday Market is hosting a shopping event at the Cantey Goodman building on the SC Fair Grounds starting November 29. Approximately 150 merchants from across the country sell merchandise during a themed shopping extravaganza, which includes a preview party, ladies only shopping event, and a children’s event with the season’s biggest celebrity, Santa! This four-day shopping event raises over $250,000, which is used to support the health and well-being of children and families in the Midlands.