The holiday season nearly upon us, including the popular nonprofit support day – Giving Tuesday – so why not extend a helping hand? With so many forces for good to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which to select. Here are 10 that might strike a chord with you.
Abilities in Motion
This winter, there’s no greater feeling than giving the gift of a bright future. Abilities in Motion (AIM) is devoted to helping Berks residents with neurological and physical disabilities live independent, fulfilling lives. AIM offers programs and advocacy as well as resources for family and peers to break down stigmas and work toward a more inclusive world. AIM accepts one-time or monthly cash donations.
abilitiesinmotion.org | 610.376.0010
Animal Rescue League of Berks County
Serving the furry friends of Berks County for more than 70 years, the Animal Rescue League of Berks County (ARL) gives care and shelter to thousands of abused, lost and neglected animals every year. The rescue can always use support toward its mission of rehoming and reuniting the numerous pets that come to the shelter. The ARL accepts both one-time donations and long-term sponsorships, including partnering with individuals and businesses on fundraising events. Applications for foster families and veterinary caregivers are also welcomed.
berksarl.org | 610.373.8830
Blankets of Hope
Providing blankets to those in need for more than a decade, Blankets of Hope believes everyone deserves to feel warm and loved wherever they are. Fueled by the donations of benefactors across the region and beyond, the organization ships clean blankets and bedding to homeless shelters and children in foster care, counseling centers, hospitals, nursing homes and more. Blankets of Hope accepts monetary gifts in several preset amounts of your choosing and will let you know how many blankets each donation tier will provide.
blanketsofhopepa.org | 610.223.8085
Breast Cancer Support Services of Berks County
The diagnosis of a serious illness is a terrifying prospect to anyone, including the more than 200,000 women diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Breast Cancer Support Services of Berks provides no-cost support groups, information and financial aid to those diagnosed with the disease, offers comfort packages, and more. Donations are accepted online.
bcssberks.org | 610.478.1447
CASA of Berks County
For young people with unstable homelives, the holiday season can lack much of the magic that every child deserves. CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Berks County strives for a community that speaks up for children who have been through abuse or neglect and supports the individuals committed to bettering domestic life in the area. CASA of Berks is most in need of volunteer advocates similarly devoted to seeing all kids thrive. Donations also help the many fostering and sheltering projects supervised by CASA.
casaberks.org | 610.301.8634
Easy Does It, Inc.
For individuals struggling with addiction, a friend or neighbor to rely on can be a blessing. Easy Does It, Inc. helps members of the community struggling with substance abuse by offering pre- and post-addiction life skills groups and two recovery centers in the Berks County region. Easy Does It always encourages direct donations and appreciates item donations through its wish list published during the holidays and other busy times of the year.
easydoesitinc.org | 610.373.2463
Grey Muzzle Manor
There’s always an abundance of animals in need of loving homes, but adoption can be particularly challenging for older pets in foster homes and shelters. Grey Muzzle Manor is a facility and rescue organization devoted to improving the lives of senior dogs and to making sure that they don’t have to spend their sunset years alone and unloved. The group takes monetary donations as well as new and used pet supplies such as beds and disposable supplies. Dog-experienced volunteers for foster and hospice care are also needed. Animal-assisted therapy for individuals is also offered at “The Place That Love Built.”
greymuzzlemanor.com | 610.655.5271
Laney’s Legacy of Hope
Dedicated to the memory of a very special young girl, Laney Brown, Laney’s Legacy of Hope has made it its mission to help families fight pediatric cancer. Since 2013, the nonprofit has raised several hundred thousand dollars for the cause though signature events and from proud sponsors. Laney’s Legacy of Hope accepts direct donations online. Be sure to check the calendar for upcoming in-person fundraisers.
Safe Berks
While the holidays are a time for many to gather, sadly, not everyone feels safe with those who are supposed to care for and love them the most. Safe Berks is an advocacy service devoted to providing somewhere to turn for survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault. This nonprofit support network appreciates donations and volunteers to help spread the message of respect and prevention of violence in intimate relationships.
safeberks.org | 610.373.1206
United Way of Berks County
There’s no better time to think about the less fortunate in one’s community, which happens to be the mission of United Way of Berks County year-round. United Way strives to make Berks County a better, safer place for everyone through the distribution of health resources, food and human services to the underprivileged in the area. The organization accepts donations of any size directly or to one of their several affiliated organizations. Mutual funds are also an option.
uwberks.org | 610.685.4550
