Goodwill to All: 5 Holiday Volunteer Opportunities in Sarasota and Bradenton

With the holiday season in full swing, is the giving spirit strong within you? Help make the holidays a little brighter for others by donating time, money or both to these worthy causes around our Springs Southwest Florida luxury apartment communities.

Sarasota

1. Holiday Basket Brigade
Boys & Girls Club
3100 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota
941.343.8023
7.6 miles from Springs at Bee Ridge

This year the Tiny Hands Foundation, a local organization that supports underprivileged kids in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, will be distributing 1,100 decorated gift baskets filled with food, toys and other holiday treats. Sponsor a family for only $30, or volunteer to help at the distribution event from 9 a.m. until noon on Saturday, December 16.

2. Salvation Army
1400 - 10th St., Sarasota
941.364.8845 x 1111
10.2 miles from Springs at Bee Ridge

Each year during the holidays, the Salvation Army's iconic bell ringers can be seen throughout the area. The organization also needs volunteers behind the scenes to work in their seasonal warehouse. Other opportunities include wrapping and distributing gifts and serving holiday meals.

3. Humane Society of Sarasota County
2331 - 15th St., Sarasota
941.955.4131

Our four-legged friends need help during the holidays, too. Why not surprise your kids with the gift of a shelter dog or cat? You can also show support by donating food, toys and supplies on the Humane Society's holiday wish list or donating your time as a volunteer for day-to-day operations and special events.

Bradenton

4. Our Daily Bread
701 - 17th Ave. W., Bradenton
941.745.2992
5.4 miles from Springs at Palma Sola

Sharing meals with family and friends is one of the more enjoyable parts of holiday celebrations, but many less fortunate people continue to go hungry. Since 1984, Our Daily Bread has served an average of 250 meals daily to men, women and children. In addition, their Project 5000 packages and distributed food bags to needy individuals and families.

5. Toys for Tots

Founded in 1947 by members of the Marine Corps Reserve, Toys for Tots is one of the more recognized and respected charities in the country. Their mission is to collect and distribute toys to underprivileged kids during the holidays. More than 97% of all funds donated go directly toward gifts. Donate online or drop off a new, unwrapped toy at dozens of collection spots throughout Manatee County.

Do you have a special cause that's near to your heart? Share it with us in the comments!