January 5, 2016
Written by Meghan Marsden Parsche, United Way Volunteer
On January 18, our country will observe the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr., activist, humanitarian and leader in the African-American civil rights movement. In observance of the holiday, many children have the day off from school. We compiled a list of five ways that families can celebrate the holiday by giving back to their community.
1. Make tray favors
Kids will love sharing their creativity by making small tray favors for the Meals on Wheels recipients. Popular donated items are handmade placemats, flower-wrapped pens and seasonal crafts. Search the popular Pinterest blog for inspiration, or brainstorm ideas together as a family.
2. Bake treats
Sweeten someone’s day by baking goodies that can be shared with people who attend support groups, and families staying at shelters. We do ask that you label all ingredients in your treats to accommodate people with food allergies.
3. Prepare snacks
Put together delicious snacks for the families attending group meetings in the evening. Snacks that our clients love include sweet bars, vegetables and dip, granola bars, pretzels, and crackers and cheese.
4. Craft some warmth
If you have a special talent for crafting warm, snuggly items, consider making blankets, hats, scarves or mittens to keep families in our community warm this winter.
5. Prepare a meal for someone in need
Cooking is a great bonding experience for families and an excellent learning opportunity for kids. Allow those little hands to help you in the kitchen to create a delicious and nutritious meal for someone in need.
Meghan Marsden Parsche is a proud United Way supporter, stay at home mom to her three young children, and volunteer writer for UWGMWC.
Meghan enjoys telling the stories of the programs and people making a positive impact on our community.