Many of us get caught up in the holiday rush – the “getting it all done,” from shopping, to baking, to extra hours at the office, to wrapping and entertaining – and I include myself in this category. But, this year, I suggest you try two things: 1) stepping back from “it all” and enjoying it – your family, your friends, the moment, and 2) giving a little back.
Yes, giving a little back. Christmas expenses are harder than ever for many families, but it’s acutely harder for those families with low incomes, young children, or who have lost jobs due to the economy. And for many, life is simply hard year-round, whether due to a serious illness, homelessness, or otherwise. So I urge you to consider donating to a charity this Christmas. It doesn’t need to be grand; donate what you can, because it all makes a difference. Below is some information on charities we support and ways you can donate.
Local Organizations
Rollingstone Respite House: This respite house provides a comfortable, caring environment for terminally ill patients and their families. After a massive fundraising effort, the house was opened in 2009 on Pine Grove Road, and fundraising efforts continue to support their skilled, caring staff and constant need for supplies – from food to activities and medical equipment. Read more about the respite house here, and to donate contact Lisa at (970)87107626.
Routt County United Way: This organization raises funds year round to assist a variety of non-profit organizations in the County. The RCUW also puts on such important programs as the Community Thanksgiving Dinner, for those without family or the ability to afford a meal, Christmas Wishes, so that all Routt County families and children can have gifts Christmas morning. To donate, please click here.
Lift-Up Donation Center and Food Bank: Lift-Up offers food and clothing for people in need of assistance. Particularly, consider donating winter clothing, outerwear, and food at this difficult time of year.
Strings Music Festival : Strings brings culture to Steamboat with an amazing summer music festival and great winter concert series – truly, food for the soul! To keep this program bringing national and international performers to Steamboat, consider donating what you can.
State and National Organizations:
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: This program funds research for cancer causes, and cures and provides free care to children with cancer. To donate, click here.
Denver Rescue Mission: Offering food and lodging for people in times of need, the Denver Rescue Mission accepts a variety of donation items, from clothing to blankets and medication. Monetary donations are also welcome and appreciated.
USO: Their mission is to lift the spirits of America’s troops and their families. They work to provide a bit of home and support to our enlisted men while they are away on duty, and support their families here at home. If you would like to support this cause,you can donate here.
International Organizations:
Project Hope: This group delivers health education, medicines, volunteers, and supplies where needed, around the world. You can donate to this important program here.
Heifer International: Help end hunger and assist families and communities in moving towards self-sufficiency with a donation to this program. Heifer International donates animals, such as cows or goats, to families and communities in need.
