Give the gift of giving back this holiday season (and every season for that matter) by donating to or volunteering with one of these five incredible Houston-based nonprofit organizations:
Houston Area Women’s Center
The Houston Area Women’s Center works to provide survivors of domestic and sexual violence with the resources they need to live a flourishing life free from violence. Since 1977, their organization has grown to include a building for counseling and administration, plus a residential shelter for 120 women and children; their team now hosts 115 paid staff and over 1,000 volunteers in addition to a 24-hour hotline center.
Houston Justice
Though Houston Justice was founded just over a year ago (by a former prison guard), the nonprofit organization has already gained attention for its notable work in the community, both locally and at large. Houston Justice emphasizes the importance of reform and rehabilitation within the prison system through various advocacy programs and by helping to register hundreds of inmates (many whom have not yet been charged with a crime) to vote.
Houston Food Bank
Through its network of 1,500 community partners in southeast Texas, volunteers with the Houston Food Bank are feeding more than 800,000 individuals each year. Recognized as Feeding America’s 2015 Food Bank of the Year, the Houston Food Bank is leading the fight against hunger.
Refugee Services of Texas
Founded upon the principles of human compassion and dignity, the Refugee Services of Texas strives to welcome refugees, immigrants, trafficking survivors, and other displaced individuals by helping them to feel welcome and integrated into the community. If you’re looking for a great volunteer opportunity, there’s no shortage here; sign up to assist with child care, teach English, provide legal services, and more.
Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation
The Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation seeks to improve the quality of lives through the power of literacy. The nonprofit helps to provide books to young people while also devoting research towards the relation of literacy rates and poverty. Joining the cause can be as simple as helping low-income families have greater access to literature by donating your old books or by sponsoring a child’s book wish-list.