A Season You Can Feel, Hear, and Smell
Gratitude lives in small gestures; a refilled glass, a shared smile, a simple moment of togetherness. It also shines through kindness beyond our own homes, in the teachers, neighbors, and workers who make every day a little brighter. This year, consider ways your family can share that same spirit of thanks in the community and help others feel the warmth of the season.
Edmarc – Food Basket Assembly & Delivery
Portsmouth, VA | Assembly: Nov. 19–20 10AM–5PM | Delivery: Nov. 22 9AM–12PM
Help Edmarc provide full holiday meals to local families in need. Volunteers can assist with organizing and packing donations or delivering food baskets directly to homes. It’s a simple, meaningful way for families to serve together and share the true spirit of giving.
NACC Waggin’ Wheels Mobile Pet Pantry
Norfolk, VA | Saturday, November 8 | 12PM–2PM
Lend a hand distributing pet food and supplies to families in need. A great opportunity to show children how small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
Volunteer Hampton Roads – 27th Annual Family Volunteer Day
Norfolk/Virginia Beach, VA | Saturday, November 22
Join other families for a day of service at Regent University. Projects include packing kits, serving meals, and creating care baskets for local organizations.
Virginia Beach SPCA – Beach Buddies Program
Virginia Beach, VA | Wednesdays 11AM–4PM | Saturdays & Sundays 9AM–12:30PM
Give a shelter dog a day of freedom and fresh air. Families can spend a few hours walking, playing, or relaxing with an adoptable pup, helping them enjoy time outside the kennel while providing valuable insight to staff about their personality.
Lynnhaven River NOW
Virginia Beach, VA | Opportunities throughout November
Join a family-friendly river cleanup or shoreline project. Kids and adults alike can help protect local waterways while learning about conservation close to home.
Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore
Various Hampton Roads locations | Opportunities throughout November
Join one of many volunteer events this month — from sorting donations to distributing food to local families. It’s a hands-on way to give back together and support neighbors across the region.
WAVY Coats for Families
Newport News, VA | November 14 | 4PM–7PM
Donate new or gently used coats to help local families stay warm this winter. Drop-off locations are available across the region, making it an easy and impactful way to give back.
Surfrider Foundation – Cape Fear Beach Cleanup
Carolina Beach, NC | Saturday, November 15 | 11AM–12PM
Head to the beach for a one-hour cleanup that’s perfect for families. Work side by side to keep the coastline beautiful and learn about protecting marine life.
The holidays remind us that home is more than a place, it’s the people we share it with. I’m grateful for the trust and friendship of people like you who make this community so special. Wishing you a joyful Thanksgiving surrounded by good company, good food, and plenty of reasons to smile. And if you’re planning a get-together, here are some fun Thanksgiving games to keep the laughter going all day long!
