The holiday season is a time for joy, reflection, and giving back to the community. If you are visiting Myrtle Beach this winter and want to make your stay even more meaningful, there are plenty of local opportunities to volunteer. Whether you’re here for a vacation or simply looking to share the holiday spirit, Myrtle Beach has several worthy causes where you can lend a helping hand. Here are some of the best volunteering options this holiday season to connect with the community and create a positive impact.
1. Meals on Wheels of Horry County
Meals on Wheels is a lifeline for many seniors in Myrtle Beach, providing hot meals and much-needed company. During the holiday season, they often need extra hands for meal preparation, delivery, and holiday cheer. This is a perfect way to not only help provide nutritious food but also to brighten the day of an elderly resident who might be alone this season.
How to Get Involved: Volunteers are always welcome to assist with deliveries. Check their website or call ahead to sign up for a shift during your stay.
2. Habitat for Humanity Myrtle Beach
Another fantastic option is to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity. During the holidays, their ReStore locations and build projects are bustling with activity. Whether you are skilled in construction or just want to help in the store, every hour you contribute helps build a future for a deserving family.
How to Get Involved: Habitat offers opportunities for individuals and families to get involved with house-building projects or help organize items at the ReStore. Check their schedule for opportunities that match your visit.
3. Helping Hand of Myrtle Beach
Helping Hand of Myrtle Beach provides food, clothing, and resources to those in need. During the holidays, they run special food and toy drives to ensure that everyone has a warm meal and gifts to enjoy. If you have a few hours to spare, you can help sort donations, pack bags, or distribute goods.
How to Get Involved: Visit their website or drop by their office to inquire about volunteer shifts. They also welcome donations if you’d like to support their holiday initiatives.
4. Grand Strand Humane Society
Animal lovers can also spread some cheer by helping out at the Grand Strand Humane Society. During the holidays, pets also need extra care, and the staff at the humane society always appreciate volunteers who can assist with walking dogs, cleaning facilities, or even providing socialization and playtime for cats and other animals.
How to Get Involved: You can volunteer to take dogs on walks along the beautiful local paths or spend time comforting the animals. Just reach out in advance to schedule a visit.
5. Street Reach Ministries
Street Reach Ministries is a local organization focused on helping the homeless community in Myrtle Beach. During the holidays, they provide hot meals, warm clothing, and a safe space for those without shelter. Volunteers can help by serving food, collecting clothing, or offering a warm smile and conversation to someone in need.
How to Get Involved: Contact Street Reach Ministries to find out what kind of help they need, whether it’s serving meals or donating warm blankets and clothing.
6. Beach Cleanup Initiatives
Myrtle Beach is famous for its sandy shores, and keeping those beaches clean is important for both the environment and the community. During the holiday season, consider joining a beach cleanup effort. Several local groups organize events to pick up trash and keep Myrtle Beach pristine for residents and visitors alike.
How to Get Involved: Look out for beach cleanup events hosted by organizations like Keep Horry County Beautiful or check local event listings for holiday-themed cleanups that are often organized by local businesses and environmental groups.
7. Local Food Banks and Toy Drives
Food banks like Lowcountry Food Bank and local toy drives are great options if you want to make a difference during your holiday in Myrtle Beach. Many of these organizations need extra volunteers to sort, pack, and distribute donations to families in need.
How to Get Involved: Contact local food banks or look for drop-off locations around town. There, you can donate toys, non-perishable food, or even a little of your time to help with distribution.
8. Volunteer as a Tutor
If you have a passion for teaching, consider volunteering as a tutor to help students in Myrtle Beach. Many local community centers and after-school programs are looking for individuals to assist children with subjects like math, reading, and science. Volunteering as a tutor can make a big impact on a child’s education and boost their confidence, especially during the holiday season when school support might be limited.
How to Get Involved: Contact local community centers or libraries to inquire about tutoring opportunities. Programs like Boys & Girls Clubs of the Grand Strand often welcome volunteers who can provide tutoring support to children
Make Your Holiday Count
Volunteering is an incredible way to connect with the Myrtle Beach community and make a positive impact while you’re here. Whether you choose to spend time with furry friends, help feed families in need, or keep the beaches clean, each small act of kindness adds up to a greater holiday spirit that resonates throughout the Grand Strand.
So, this holiday season, consider adding a few hours of volunteer work to your itinerary while staying at Myrtle Beach. Not only will you make cherished memories, but you’ll also help ensure that others can share in the holiday joy.
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you’re interested in any of these opportunities, reach out to the organizations ahead of time to confirm availability. Many of them warmly welcome vacationers, including guests staying with NPR Vacation Rentals, who want to lend a helping hand. Your involvement can make all the difference in someone’s holiday season. Happy volunteering!