Give back with these 7 ways to volunteer in Birmingham, including United Way

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Family smiling and sitting in Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama
Want to see smiles like this? Support your local nonprofit in Birmingham. Photo via Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama on Facebook

This year has thrown us all curveballs, but there’s still so much to be thankful for. Take advantage of the season of thanksgiving by giving back! While you’re making your plans for Thanksgiving, make sure to check out these 7 ways you can donate or volunteer in Birmingham this year.

Support 146 Local Nonprofits

View of Magic City, Birmingham
Birmingham really is the magic city, and these nonprofits make it even more magical. Photo via Capturing Corvin on Facebook

Does the season of giving thanks inspire you to give back? We’ve got all the info you need.

Check out our local nonprofit directory to browse over 140 nonprofits in Birmingham.

Know a nonprofit that should be featured? Fill out the form below to be featured on our site and in guides like this one for free.

1. Contribute to the United Way Community Crisis Fund 

Donate or volunteer in Birmingham - United Way Community Crisis Fund, food delivery
Seniors are remaining well-fed thanks to the Community Crisis Fund. Photo via United Way of Central Alabama on Facebook

The United Way of Central Alabama Community Crisis Fund impacts Birmingham significantly. Since March, they’ve given out $664,000 in grants to 90 organizations.

Your donation to the Community Crisis Fund will help them support deserving nonprofits. 

2. Donate to Blazers Against Hunger

Donate or volunteer in Birmingham, Blazers Against Hunger at UAB
The best way to support the Blazers this fall? Donating to Blazers Against Hunger. Photo via the University of Alabama on Facebook

Whether you cheer on the Blazers or different teams in Alabama, you’ll be proud to support the Blazers Against Hunger event. This virtual fundraising event supports Blazer Kitchen, the on-campus food bank.

On November 19, you can help the campus kitchen feed students and employees with a quick donation

3. Volunteer for Jimmie Hale Mission Thanksgiving Day Meal Delivery

Volunteer in Birmingham at Jimmie Hale Mission
There’s nothing better than a hot meal on a foggy day, so give back this Thanksgiving by volunteering to serve meals. Photo via Jimmie Hale Mission on Facebook

Jimmie Hale Mission (JHM) is a unique nonprofit in Birmingham with three campuses focused on providing shelter and recovery services for Birmingham citizens.

If you’re looking for a way to give back on Thanksgiving Day, volunteer to distribute meals outside of their main campus. Call 205-323-5878 or email terry@jimmyhalemission.com to sign up.

4. Support Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama (RMHCA)

Family at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama (RMHCA) have been a strong support system for families, especially throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

The House provides resources and a warm place to stay for families with sick children and makes them all feel comfortable.

To help out RMHCA’s mission, donate food or make a donation

5. Volunteer at Be A Blessing Birmingham’s Blessing Day

Volunteers supporting Be a Blessing Birmingham
Support Birmingham’s homeless population by supporting Be A Blessing Birmingham. Photo via Be A Blessing Birmingham on Facebook

Be A Blessing Birmingham’s mission is to garner community support for Birmingham’s homeless population through initiatives like their monthly Blessing Days. 

On Saturday, November 21 at 8 AM, you can volunteer in Birmingham at Linn Park to distribute hygiene necessities

Sign up for the November Blessing Day here or donate today.

6. Give to the American Red Cross

Two American Red Cross volunteers in Birmingham, Alabama
Gary and Mary Mattingly, two Red Cross volunteers. Photo via Gary and Mary Mattingly

There are so many ways to give back with American Red Cross. Donate blood to save lives or find different ways to volunteer no matter what your talents and passions are.

If you want to give back while remaining in your home, consider making a monetary donation.

7. Donate gently used clothing to the AIDS Alabama Clothing Drive

Donate gently used clothing to AIDs Alabama
Not wearing your professional & business casual clothes anymore? Give them a new home. Photo via AIDS Alabama on Facebook

First impressions are important for everyone, and you can help someone make a great one by donating to the AIDS Alabama Clothing Drive. Donate your gently used work and interview clothing this month (especially if you’ve been working from home in your sweatpants lately).

You can drop off donations at their main office located at 3529 7th Ave S., Birmingham, AL 35222 Monday-Thursday 10am-4pm.

Know of any more ways to volunteer in Birmingham this Thanksgiving or nonprofits we can support? Send this form so we can spread the word!

Cecilia Wood
Cecilia Wood
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