Celebrate National Give Something Day on July 15! This special day allows you to express generosity and give away some items you may no longer use anymore but someone else may need. National Give Something Away Day can be about many different things. It can range from a small act of kindness to a whole closet clean-out!
How to participate
For those who are especially busy, taking some time to donate canned goods or household items is convenient and highly appreciated by local shelters or food banks. This is also a great time to think outside of the box and perform random acts of kindness to those who have made a positive impact on your life.
Donate clothes and unused items
Go through closets, under beds, junk drawers, and storage spaces to find different items that are no longer useful to you. There are plenty of places looking for donations of any kind all year round that will accept nearly anything you have to offer. The most common items people donate are clothes, books, and toys. If you haven’t used an item in a year or two it may be time to let someone else enjoy it.
Donate blood
This donation could save a life. American Red Cross has a guide for those who have never given blood so they know what to expect. A convenient location may be closer than you think. All you need to do is visit their website, enter your zip code, and make an appointment!
Ways to give your time away
National Give Something Away Day does not have to be all tangible items you find in your house, it can also be seen as giving up your time to do something for others. Clear your calendar on July 15 and volunteer at your local community shelter, animal shelter, or hospital. These places are always looking for an extra hand throughout the day. Make a difference in someone’s life by giving up your time and impacting their day positively.
Volunteer at a soup kitchen
Find your local soup kitchen and serve a meal to those in need! This only takes a couple of hours of your time and is also a family-friendly way to get everyone involved in helping your community.
Volunteer at an animal shelter
Taking a dog on a walk is helpful and highly appreciated by both humans and dogs. The health benefits of walking dogs range from bettering their mental health to bettering their sleep. Playing fetch or simply giving belly rubs will make the dogs’ day. Who knows, maybe you will meet your new roommate!
Volunteer to build homes
Habitat for Humanity is one of the most common ways to get involved with a hands-on project! This is another family-friendly activity where you can meet others in your community and get your hands dirty. Plus, you are giving a local family in need a new home to enjoy.
National Give Something Away Day is a holiday that can be celebrated all year. It can range from simple things, like regularly gathering donations after cleaning your home, to regularly volunteering time at a local shelter or food bank. Volunteering is another way to build new friendships with other people who have the same interests as you, in addition to supporting a cause you are passionate about. Doing good for others is a fulfilling feeling that leaves those in need relieved and happy, and you feel accomplished.
