Northwest Atlanta is known for being filled with people who value a sense of community, and you’ll quickly find that everyone here loves showing how much they care. Thanksgiving in Northwest Atlanta kicks off the winter holidays, and people in the community tend to make a big deal about this special event. This year, you can use this list of ideas to begin giving thanks to everyone who makes your community so special.

Volunteer Time at Must Ministries

Must Ministries is Georgia’s most respected servant-leader. It encompasses over 17,000 volunteers who want nothing more than to help those in need and help their community. If you want to bring a smile to someone this holiday season, then consider volunteering at Must Ministries. You can volunteer at their food pantry, clothing closet, or at their donation center, just to mention of few. If you can’t give up your time, you can also give up some of your finances to help those in need. There are so many ways you can give back to this organization, reach out today to get involved!

Drop Off a Care Package to Community Service Providers

You’ve likely noticed a few special people in your community over the past year. Grocery store workers, nurses, and police officers are just a few important people who make your life easier. You might even have a special bus driver or school employee that you appreciate. Giving them a care package filled with snacks, gift cards, and other small gifts lets them know you notice their efforts.

Donate Items to a Local Charitable Organization

If you’ve been downsizing for a move, then you may already have some of your belongings taking up space in storage. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to start digging through it all to find things that other people might need. Giving toys, winter coats, and other outgrown supplies to people who need them shows appreciation for everyone in your community.

Share Your Talents or Special Skills

If you are looking for things to do this holiday in Northwest Atlanta, then you’ve likely noticed that the city is filled with people who have talents to share. Whether you are an aspiring musician or an established comedian, there is someone out there just waiting to see you show off your skills. Reach out to a few nursing homes, hospitals, and other organizations to see if you can put on a show for the people who live or work there.

Serve a Meal to Someone In Need

This is the time of year when many charitable organizations serve meals to the hungry, and they’re always looking for volunteers. You could serve at a shelter putting together Thanksgiving meals, or you could volunteer to work for a meal delivery service. If going out and about isn’t an option, then consider inviting a neighbor over to share your holiday meal.

Send a Handwritten Note to Someone Who Made a Difference

Did your child’s teacher go above and beyond this semester? Or, perhaps you are amazed by your pet’s new veterinarian’s ability to keep them calm. Writing a quick note of thanks only takes a few minutes, but the effect on the recipient will last forever.

Showing gratitude doesn’t have to be a one-time event. You can choose several of the ideas from this list and make a few of your own to scatter throughout the entire holiday season. Spending Thanksgiving in Atlanta gives this day a whole new meaning that will leave you appreciating all of the people and businesses that foster a deeper sense of what it means to be part of a generous community.