Thanksgiving connects Ann Arbor families and teaches children the true meaning of gratitude. The holiday is a special opportunity to give back to your community and lend a hand. You can help those in need and show your kids how to make a difference. Here are eight ways to support your community and foster new cherished traditions.
1. Volunteer at Food Gatherers
The impact of food insecurity is felt in Ann Arbor and across the country. Statistics show 13.5% of American households faced this problem in 2023. Your family can make a difference by volunteering at Food Gatherers, Washtenaw County’s primary food bank. This hunger relief agency needs volunteers to sort, pack and distribute goods to local families.
2. Serve meals at a soup kitchen
When Thanksgiving arrives, some Ann Arbor families rely on soup kitchens for a hot meal. Sign up as a family to serve meals on the holiday and put a smile on people’s faces. Organizations providing Thanksgiving meals include The Breakfast Program at St. Andrews and The Community Kitchen. Other volunteer duties may include preparing food, setting tables and cleaning up.
3. Send Thanksgiving cards
Seniors and veterans are valuable community members, so send Thanksgiving cards to brighten their holidays. These Ann Arbor residents may be in nursing homes or the VA hospital, which can feel isolating. Handmade cards and personalized artwork are excellent ways to express gratitude to those unable to be with their families.
4. Run the Ann Arbor Turkey Trot
The Ann Arbor Turkey Trot is a festive way to kick off your Thanksgiving morning. This event donates proceeds to local charities, making the race even more meaningful. This year, the organization is supporting the ChadTough Foundation, which raises awareness about childhood cancer. Participating is an opportunity to spend time outdoors and get active.
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5. Donate to local clothing drives
While some enjoy winter weather, others may have inadequate seasonal gear. The average high dips to 31 degrees Fahrenheit in January, so some Ann Arbor families need help staying comfortable. Take your gently used coats, hats and gloves to local clothing drives to make the winter easier. Initiatives include the Reinhart Realtors Annual Coat Drive and House by the Side of the Road.
6. Create Care Packages
If you have limited time on Thanksgiving, you could drop off care packages to those in need. These goodie bags include essentials like toiletries, fresh socks and nonperishable snacks. Encourage your kids to write thoughtful, uplifting notes to brighten someone else’s spirits. Once finished, you can mail the packages or drop them off in person. Ann Arbor organizations include the Delonis Center, the Hope Clinic and Ozone House.
7. Clean local parks and trails
Litter cleanups are essential to keeping local parks safe, welcoming and healthy. Take time on Thanksgiving to tidy up these Ann Arbor recreational areas and practice environmental stewardship. Your family can spend the holiday at Gallup Park, Nichols Arboretum and Bandemer Park. Experts say park cleanups protect ecosystems, enhance habitats and improve aesthetics.
8. Donate books to the Ann Arbor District Library
Thanksgiving starts the holiday season, which brings financial stress to some. Ann Arbor families may need help affording gifts for their kids, so consider donating books. This charitable act fosters generosity and promotes literacy for those in need. You can donate your books to organizations like Friends of the Ann Arbor District Library and Give My Books.
Impacting the lives of fellow Michiganders
Thanksgiving is among the best opportunities to show gratitude through action and kindness. Volunteering, donating and reaching out to neighbors can significantly affect someone else’s holiday. Find ways to make a difference and bring joy to other families. When you give back, you also teach your kids the importance of selflessness.
