30 Days of Giving, Day 30: Helping Out in the New Year

This is part of a 30-day series of ways Patch community members can give back this holiday season. We hope you'll take part in this 30 Days of Giving and take the spirit beyond the holidays, because there truly is need all year long.

Giving throughout the year

There are a variety of ways to give back to people in Oakland County and beyond; many of which we have touched on in our 30 Days of Giving series. However we are just scratching the surface.

It’s important to remember that people are in need all year round, and though the holidays provide an extra burden in many cases, need is a perpetual thing. If you find yourself with a few hours of downtime every week, consider volunteering at a nonprofit organization. Or keep an eye on Patch’s Volunteer tab and see who is in need of volunteers.

Here is a look at a few other area charities not mentioned in this series:

• Camp Casey: This Royal Oak-based nonprofit focuses on the healing power of horses for children with cancer. Three different programs are available for the children to ease their pain and help them forget about their troubles while horseback riding. For more information, check out the group's website at www.camp-casey.org.
• The Friendship Circle: Lending a hand to individuals and families with special needs is what Friendship Circle does best. Through various programs, the nonprofit is able to educate families and individuals about those with special needs. Visit www.friendshipcircle.org to learn more.
• The Children’s Leukemia Foundation: A Troy-based organization that provides emotional support, financial help and education to families affected by blood disorders related to leukemia and lymphoma. Visit its website at www.leukemiamichigan.org for more information.
• The South Oakland Citizens for the Homeless Welcome Inn Day Center: Held at the , this nonprofit provides the homeless with a warm, safe place to go during the day. At the Center, the homeless are given a meal, a place to make phone calls, shower, socialize and seek out job opportunities. Visit its website at www.sochwelcomeinn.org for volunteering opportunities.
• Assistance League of Southeastern Michigan: This nonprofit based in Rochester Hills strives to improve the quality of life of people in need of guidance, care and other forms of assistance. A variety of philanthropic programs are put into play thanks to the Assistance League. Find out more at www.semich.assistanceleague.org.

We know we didn’t highlight all of the amazing nonprofits in Oakland County, so if you know of someone we missed feel free to mention them in the comments and help spread the word!

Previous days

• Days 1-10
• Days 1-20
• Day 21-29