The end of the year holidays are almost upon us. It’s a time of great joy for many, yet others find the whole thing depressing. One of the nicest gifts you can give yourself during this period is by volunteering. There are lots of ways to get involved:

Your community probably offers special holiday meals to the homeless and others in need. These organizations often welcome volunteers to serve food and help in other ways.

• If you belong to a church, stay alert for volunteer opportunities there.
  

• Your local senior center is likely to need your help.
  

• Senior Corps (RSVP) is a national organization offering volunteer opportunities.
  

• Helpguide.org offers both volunteer opportunities and shows you how to decide the best opportunity for you.

• The United Way has volunteer opportunities in many communities
  

Folks who volunteer often find they not only have fun doing it, it provides connections and friends.