It’s the season of giving, and whether it's volunteering or donating there are plenty of ways to give back to Philly. We’ve curated a list of five different ways you can volunteer on Thanksgiving Day and beyond.
When: Nov. 27, 6-8 p.m. & Nov. 28, 8 a.m.–12 p.m.
Operation Turkey is hosting two volunteer opportunities this holiday season: At the Philadelphia Turkey Tailgate on the day before Thanksgiving, volunteers will help smoke the turkeys and prepare meals to be served on Thanksgiving Day. Then on Thanksgiving Day, volunteers are needed to prepare, package, and deliver meals to the homeless and less fortunate. Both events take place at The Common Place, located at 5736 Chester Ave.
When: Nov. 28, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Philly House, the city’s longest-standing homeless shelter for men, is looking for volunteers to help with cleaning the dining area and the lounge that the residents use. There are only a few spots left, so make sure to sign up if you want to help out on Thanksgiving Day. If you’re unable to be there on Thanksgiving but want to volunteer with Philly House (302 N. 13th St.), there are plenty of volunteer opportunities year-round. Check out the Philly House calendar to find out how to get involved.
When: Nov. 28, various times
MANNA Kitchen works to provide quality food for critically ill neighbors. MANNA needs people to help with Thanksgiving Day meal deliveries for clients. Today is the final day to sign up for this Thanksgiving Day volunteer opportunity. If you’re interested in helping out, email vargyris@mannapa.org. You will need to fill out a PA background check and also send a photo of your driver’s license. If you aren’t able to help out on Thanksgiving Day, there are other opportunities for meal prep and delivery Monday through Friday throughout the year.
When: Nov. 28, 10:45 a.m.–5 p.m.
The Rock hosts a Thanksgiving meal, serving turkey and all of the fixings to hundreds of guests. This organization is asking for people to volunteer for one of the two shifts. The Rock is also accepting donations of food and supplies, from ham to rolls to serving trays, so drop something off if you’re unable to volunteer.
When: Various Times (Not open on Thanksgiving Day or the day after)
Broad Street Love provides a range of volunteer opportunities from meal to clothing services. Volunteers are needed for lunch service from 10:15 a.m.–2 p.m., Monday through Friday. There are also volunteer opportunities in the clothing boutique on Thursdays from 12–2 p.m. These volunteers act as personal shoppers, helping guests pick five gently used clothing items.
