Ahhh it’s that time of year again when we want to think about all the good things we have in life around a big happy table of food. But not everyone has a cookie cutter life. As a single mom, I won’t be with Max this Thanksgiving and with family back in Pittsburgh, I’ll be spending it alone – not to fear, I love the day off, but still, it makes you plan in advance to have bonding time together in different ways that cooking food together all day on Thanksgiving.
This year, we decided to participate in Family Volunteer Day a little early, and also incorporated Veterans Day into the mix. Since my grandfather was one and served in WWII (even was part of D Day in Normandy!) and he always shared the incredible stories of war with me (hence was kickstarted my love and need to be a journalist – a war journalist) I really have a fond appreciation for our country and servicemen, and always make sure Maximo knows how important they are to our history and his future. We spent the day talking about grandpa, how some people leave their families to help us stay safe, and how important it is to show love and kindness to these people who put their lives on the line for us. Maybe these people will be spending Thanksgiving Day alone too, but now they’ll at least know someone like us is out there thinking of them.
What is Family Volunteer Day
Held annually on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and now in its 26th year, (this year it is November 19th) Family Volunteer Day is a day of service that demonstrates and celebrates the power of families who volunteer together, supporting their neighbors and neighborhoods. And it is powered by generationOn, the youth division of Points of Light, the largest organization in the world dedicated to volunteer service, and sponsored by The Walt Disney Company. It’s an easy way to give-back and show kids how to do be compassionate of others.
How Can You Get Involved
1. Go to fvd.generationon.org and sign up to see what opportunities are available in your area. Note: not every project is exactly on November 19 so there are more chances to get involved! Like with us, we made the Veterans cards earlier this month!
2. Based on your location, you’ll see TONS of ideas and opportunities to get involved including fun things around NYC like
3. Get out there and do some good!
4. Don’t forget to share your stories on social with #FamilyVolunteerDay.com, AND families who share their Family Volunteer Day experience on fvd.generationon.org will be eligible to win one of four $500 gift cards to help with holiday shopping and five “family night out” prizes, consisting of dinner and a movie!
Spread the love! xoxo
This post is part of a sponsored campaign for Family Volunteer Day. I received compensation for my participation, but my review and opinions are my own.
