Top 10 philanthropic opportunities

By Lauren McGlone
Collegian Editor
November 7, 2007

With the Thanksgiving holiday quickly approaching, many students are looking forward to the five-day weekend and spending time with family for the traditional meal of turkey, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie. Often with the holiday season comes the motivation to appreciate those things that many people may take for granted, such as hot meals, drinkable water, a comfortable bed or a friend to confide in. This Thanksgiving, invest some time or donate to these charitable organizations that work for the betterment of those less fortunate in the Philadelphia area.

10. Free Library of Philadelphia—With over 50 branches in the city, the Free Library of Philadelphia boasts a number of programs and services that enlist the help of the community. A list of current volunteer opportunities may be found at library.phila.gov.

9. Caring People Alliance—One of the region’s largest human service agencies, Caring People Alliance focuses on the welfare of youth, particularly by the establishment of seven community centers throughout the city. In addition to youth programs, Caring People Alliance additionally offers adult, senior, family and clinical programs at the various centers. The organizations enlist the help of volunteers of all ages and seeks participation in the special events planned for the community. Financial donations may also be made at caringpeoplealliance.org

8. American Red Cross—Nationally, the American Red Cross dedicates its services to disaster relief. The Southeastern Pennsylvania chapter was founded in 1916 and serves nearly 3.5 million people in Montgomery, Philadelphia, Bucks, Chester and Delaware counties. The American Red Cross accepts monetary and a number of other donations and conducts blood drives to help save lives. A blood drive will be held at La Salle Nov. 13 and 14.

7. Philadelphia Citizens for Children and Youth—This organization works solely for the benefit of all children in the Philadelphia area, striving to help not only abused or homeless youth, but also those children who cannot afford transportation to school or are left home alone after the last school bell has rung. All contributions made to PCCY go toward children’s health care and insurance, art and music programs in schools, establishing pre-kindergartens and youth commission projects, among many other ventures for children in Philadelphia. Visit pccy.org for more information or to donate.

6. Philadabundance—Working to end hunger in the Delaware Valley, Philabundance gathers and then distributes surplus food, giving it to local organizations that feed the needy in the area. During this Thanksgiving season, Philabundance is organizing several events that will provide a holiday meal for those who would not otherwise have one. A Turkey Round-up and Holiday Packing Day is scheduled for Nov. 17 to benefit low-income families. For more information on such special events, visit philabundance.org.

5. Calcutta House—Located at 1601 W. Girard Ave., the Calcutta House provides housing for individuals living with AIDS. Established in 1987, the Calcutta House has grown to include another facility at 1221 N. 19th St. and has provided assistance to nearly 400 individuals since the organization’s founding. Volunteer opportunities at the Calcutta House enlist the help of individuals in interacting with residents and participating in events and special projects. No formal experience is necessary in order to volunteer, but positions are limited. Visit calcuttahouse.org for more information.

4. Salvation Army—Established in 1886, the Salvation Army offers both social services and spiritual ministry to a worldwide community of those in need. Aside from its year-round services, activities and events, the Salvation Army is now enlisting the help of the Philadelphia community in feeding the homeless this Thanksgiving. Local headquarters is located at 701 N. Broad St.

3. Philadelphia Cares—A nonprofit organization, Philadelphia Cares organizes volunteer opportunities and special events to allow individuals to meaningfully contribute to the community. Philadelphia Cares seeks volunteers of all ages and also encourages frequent “Family Friendly” and group projects. The group plans to participate in the Philadelphia Marathon Nov. 16 through Nov. 18 to assist in race activities.

2. The Charles Cassidy Family Memorial Trust Fund—In memory of the late Officer Charles Cassidy, killed in the line of duty Nov. 1, the 35th District of the Philadelphia Police Department established a trust fund for the victim’s family. All donations will benefit the wife and children of the late Cassidy, a 25-year veteran of the force. Checks may be sent to the 35th District at 5960 N. Broad St. or any of the seven branches of the Philadelphia Police and Fire Credit Union.

1. Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia—Named the best pediatric hospital in the nation, CHOP offers not only excellent health care for children but also special programs, services and events for patients. CHOP accepts monetary donations and financial investments in research programs and also offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, one of which involves reading aloud to children in waiting rooms. For more information about how to get involved with CHOP, visit giving.chop.edu.  

mcglonel1@lasalle.edu