Giving back

‘Tis the season to be jolly, but it’s also a great time to give back to the city we all love so much. Here are a few ways you can get into the holiday spirit, all for several good causes around town.

November 29, 2009; 3:17 PM • by Marge Weimer

‘Tis the season to be jolly, but it’s also a great time to give back to the city we all love so much. Here are a few ways you can get into the holiday spirit, all for several good causes around town.

First, let’s start with some events that will let you have a great time with fellow do-gooders…

Celebration of the Trees Opening Day

Bid on holiday decorations created by local non-profit groups on December 3 from 9am to 6 pm in a silent auction. Proceeds benefit the decorator’s chosen charity. This event runs through December 12.
Location: 17205 Mountain Road in Montpelier, VA
Cost: Free admission

Holiday Rock & Shop at Gallery5

On December 6, from Noon to 6 pm, The ladies of Cherry Bomb will host an art show containing work from local artists and vendors benefiting Gallery5 and The Fan Free Clinic.
Location: Gallery5, 200 W. Marshall St. in Richmond
Cost: Free admission, but come ready to shop!

First Annual Shockoe Slip Open House Block Party

An event benefiting Richmond SPCA, Toys for Tots and Caritas will be held December 10 and 11 (starting at 10am on that Thursday).  Adoptable pets, drink and dinner specials as well as other holiday inspired activities all in Shockoe Slip.
Location: Shockoe Slip, around 12th and Main Streets in Richmond
Cost: Free admission, but bring cash for food and drinks.

Holiday Extravaganza

On December 10 from 6pm to 9pm, The Richmond SPCA will host a day filled with holiday inspired events including a holiday shopping fair, pet photos with Santa, the Canine Cafe and more.
Location: 2519 Hermitage Road in Richmond
Cost: Fees range depending on activities

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No time to partake in holiday benefits? Don’t worry – there are plenty of organizations in Richmond in need of donations…

McKesson Holiday Angels Program

Through December 5, Meals on Wheels and the Mckesson Holiday Angels Program will be collecting toiletries and other household items for community members in need. New, unwrapped items may be dropped off at Meals On Wheels, 1600 Willow Lawn Drive in Richmond. Beginning on December 16, items will also be accepted at participating CVS stores in our area.

The Salvation Army Red Kettle Drive

Since 1885, the Salvation Army has successfully organized several Christmas assistance programs for community members in Richmond. The Red Kettle Drive provides support for the social service programs of the Salvation Army. Kettles run by volunteers are set up all over the city and visitors are invited to donate whatever they can.

American Red Cross Holiday Fund Drive

Home fires increase during the holiday season and the Greater Richmond Red Cross needs donations. Donations will help provide emergency food and water, shelter, blankets, clothing, counseling and emotional support.

Richmond SPCA Wish List

The SPCA depends on the generous donations of community members – especially around the holidays. Check out their wish list and help keep this no-kill shelter stocked with much needed items.

Puritan Cleaners Coats for Kids

Since 1988 Puritan Cleaners and the Salvation Army have collected donations for this important charity – providing warm coats for children who might otherwise go without. Puritan Cleaners locations all over Richmond will take your donations of gently used coats, dry-clean them, and then present them to the Salvation Army.

Toys for Tots

This U.S. Marine Corps run charity helps provide Christmas presents for kids who need them most. Drop-off locations in Richmond will accept new, unwrapped toys. Monetary donations may be sent to Toys for Tots campaign offices as well.

Henrico Christmas Mother

This organization provides clothing, toys and food for 5,000 of their Henrico County neighbors in need. Make a donation, volunteer or sponsor a family.

The Salvation Army Angel Tree program

Angel trees set up at local malls have adoptable ‘Angels,’ which represent an under-privileged child in our area. By choosing an angel to adopt, you are providing a gift for that child to enjoy. Unwrapped gift donations must be made by December 12 at the following locations:

Short Pump Town Center, Chesterfield Towne Center, Virginia Center Commons, Dick’s Sporting Goods at Stony Point Fashion Park, Southpark Mall and JC Penney at Regency Square Mall. These Angel Trees will be open Monday-Saturday from 10am to 9pm (with the exception of Thanksgiving Day) and on Sundays from 1pm to 6pm.

All of these good deeds have definitely earned you the right to have a little fun this holiday season. Be sure to check out our lists of holiday events, seasonal shows, Christmas tree spots, and where to find Santa.

November 29, 2009 3:17 PM 0