Give Back During the Holidays

The holiday season is one of the most meaningful times to give back to the community, and HandsOn San Diego is here to connect volunteers and donors with opportunities that make a real difference. Through our Holiday Volunteering Resource Page, San Diegans can find ways to volunteer, donate, or participate in adopt-a-family programs that spread joy across the county!

Each year, local nonprofits host holiday programs that bring comfort and hope to families in need. Our Holiday Giving Opportunities form helps nonprofits share these programs with the wider community! Organizations can submit adopt-a-family programs or in-kind donation drives for items like food, clothing, toys, and household goods. These programs help fulfill wish lists for children, seniors, and families who might otherwise go without during the holidays. Interested nonprofits can fill out this form and learn more about our nonprofit partnership on our partnerships page. 

This year’s holiday opportunities highlight the generosity and compassion within our community. A few examples include:

• Sharia’s Closet’s Adopt-a-Family initiative support families with gifts and essentials.
• The Slavic Refugee and Immigrant Services Organization connects Ukrainian families with local sponsors for Thanksgiving. 
• The Boys & Girls Clubs of Northwest San Diego ensure every child has a special gift under the tree.
• Youth Tennis San Diego keeps young athletes warm through their Jacket Drive.
• Operation Courage is Beautiful sends care packages to deployed servicewomen around the world.

From donation drives and adopt-a-family programs to volunteer projects, there are so many ways to participate in the spirit of giving! Volunteers can also sign up for ongoing opportunities such as preparing Welcome Home Kits for PATH clients or crafting cozy hats and scarves for neighbors experiencing homelessness. The holidays fill up quickly with volunteer needs, so registering early ensures you’ll find the perfect way to give back!

The holidays are a reminder that generosity brings people together. By volunteering, donating, or submitting a holiday program, every participant helps build a stronger and more compassionate San Diego. Together, we can make this season brighter for everyone.