With the continuation of the volatile economy, charitable organizations are struggling to stay out of the red and stay true to their mission statements. The holidays are a great time to give back to those organizations who make the Hudson Valley a wonderful place to live, work, and play; however, the holidays are limited to only one season. Events such as weddings and bridal showers provide a great opportunity to raise awareness about the needs of your own community and can happen any time of the year!
How about this idea?
Instead of having a wishing well at your bridal shower, set up a food pantry donation box. Ask guests to give a few nonperishable organic goods in lieu of a small trinket. Chances are that you will never miss the gifts that you would have received. No one needs another set of coasters. Trust me. :)
According to the Food Research and Action Center, approximately 12.9% of New York households are considered food insecure. That's about 984,000 people who need help putting food on the table. Donate the food goods to The Food Bank of the Hudson Valley to help out some of our neighbors right here in the Valley and you'll have that soft, fuzzy feeling in your heart.
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Having a holiday party or get-together with your bridesmaids? Your guests will inevitably ask you what they can bring. So instead of the old "ohh, nothing! I've got everything covered!" response, ask guests to donate goods for your local humane society. The Putnam Humane Society needs everything from dog food to post-it notes. Check your local humane society's website to find out their needs and compile a list. As guests RSVP to your event, ask them to bring an item off your list. After the party, make a trip to the humane society, donate the goods, and pet a dog or two. You may even come home with a new best friend!
Using your party, shower, or wedding as a way to give back to your community will make your event that much sweeter. :)
Happy Planning,
Lizzie
I LOVE this idea! For a couple years now my family has been doing this type of thing for Christmas, where we all make donations instead of struggling to find something that the other person might want.
ReplyDeleteI had friends do this same thing for their too. They were older when they got married and had already lived on their own for several years so they already had most of the things that people put on regsitries. It made the wedding seem like that much more of a celebration, rather than an excuse invite lots of people to get lots of presents.