Are you tired of winter? It seems that every one that I talk to is ready for spring. While I think that snow can be beautiful, I am less of a fan of the slush and the bitter cold that often goes along with a Wisconsin winter. By the time February rolls around I am ready for a change in my routine to help me get through the last few weeks of winter. If you are looking to add something new to your routine I have a few suggestions.
Try volunteering. There are numerous groups and organizations in our community that depend on volunteers. Volunteering can be a one-time event or an ongoing commitment. You can volunteer by yourself or involve your friends, co-workers or family members in a group opportunity.
In the winter volunteers are particularly needed by many organizations since many regular volunteers head to warmer climates. One source of volunteer opportunities is our website: www.marshfieldareaunitedway.org and click Volunteer. Also, Volunteer Monday! is a feature on Facebook and Twitter the first and third Monday of the month that focuses on volunteer tips or highlights opportunities.
My family recently volunteered with Home Delivered Meals. While it was a cold and snowy day as we were delivering the meals, we felt warm and sunny knowing we had taken a little bit of time out of our day to help someone else.
Support the events of local organizations. Almost every weekend in the Marshfield area there are some great fundraising events. These events range from family events like Bowl for Kids Sake, to pancake breakfasts, auctions and even shopping opportunities. There is no shortage of events that are both fun and help support worthwhile organizations.
Plan your garden. I know nothing helps me take a brief respite from winter like a seed catalog. I love planning what I will plant in my garden. Part of my planning also includes what additional vegetables I will plant to donate to a local food pantry. These donations help our food pantries stretch their limited budget.
Integrate a few of these events and activities in your routine to get you through the last few weeks of the winter blues. It will brighten your day and make your community a better place.
For more information and ways to get you through the winter visit marshfieldareaunitedway.org, facebook.com/MarshfieldAreaUnitedWay or twitter.com/MAUW01 or call 715-384-9992.
Paula Jero, Executive Director of Marshfield Area United Way can be contacted at unitedway.paula@tznet.com
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