Where to volunteer this holiday season

The first step in looking desirable to employers could be getting your hands dirty with a volunteer gig. Help out this holiday season.

The holidays are about being with the ones you love. But not everyone is fortunate enough to have someone there for them this Christmas. Animals and people across the city are in desperate need of companionship at this time of year. If you’re into giving back, consider volunteering at one of these locations.

Philadelphia Veterans Comfort House
4108 Baltimore Ave.
267-292-2052
What better way to show your patriotic appreciation than helping a veteran this Christmas? The Philadelphia Veterans Comfort House is seeking volunteers to help feed homeless veterans this year. They served your country, so the least you could do is serve them a meal.

Animal Care & Control Team of Philadelphia
111 W. Hunting Park Ave., 267-385-3800
ACCT Philly is looking for help with its Holiday Open House. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Christmas day, feel free to stop by to hand out treats and toys to shelter animals. Refreshments will be provided. And if you need a special gift, cute pets are up for adoption.

Big Brothers Big Sisters
230 North 13th St.
215-567-7000
The true humanitarian gives back not just for a day, but a lifetime. Big Brothers Big Sisters is a fantastic organization that allows volunteers the opportunity to mentor the future leaders of the world.

Little Brothers — Friends of the Elderly
642 N. Broad St.
215-765-8118
Little Brothers — Friends of the Elderly is in need of volunteers to deliver meals and gifts to those without families this Christmas. By simply taking a few hours out of your day, you can truly bring joy to someone who needs some. The application deadline is quickly approaching so get yours in.

SERVE Philadelphia
112 City Hall
215-686-0317
If none of these opportunities spark your interest, there are always other ways to give back. The Mayor’s Office of Civic Engagement and Volunteer Service can pair people with the right organizations in need of help. Visit their website at volunteer.phila.gov to find out about how to give back to your city.