Heading into 2021, so many of us face questions around our physical, mental, and financial health. The needs of our communities are greater than ever. We put together this list to help Casper residents find active ways to love your neighbors in the new year.
1. Knit a Scarf (Seriously!)
Are you handy with a needle and yarn? Help out with the 2021 Scarf Project for Special Olympics Wyoming. Knit or crochet a scarf in red, gray, or beige for the Special Olympics team of athletes, coaches, and families. They will don the scarves at the 2021 State Winter Games. To contribute, you’ll want to make sure your scarf is received by Jan. 25.
2. Battle Hunger in Casper
Hunger’s effects are pervasive, and there are ways to get involved that will directly help your neighbors in Casper. Pick up a gift certificate to help Joshua’s Storehouse and Distribution Center purchase turkeys for people who are hungry in your area, or give to their GoFundMe to help with operating costs in a time of intense need. If you’ve got more time than dollars to spare, get out and volunteer for the Wyoming Food for Thought Project, another local hunger relief organization that is working to make nutrient-rich food easily accessible.
3. Give Some Clothes & Buy Some Clothes
Make time for a safe visit to the Rescued Treasures Thrift Store, a local charity that provides support for people experiencing homelessness and hunger. They’re accepting donations of gently used clothing, furniture, housewares, electronics, and toys – and you may find something to take home, too. The thrift store is also a job training site for Wyoming Rescue Mission guests, so you can feel good about spending those dollars.
4. Keep Kids Safe
Purchase a few items from the wish list for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming, an organization that provides a safe (and fun) space for at-risk youth in Casper and surrounding areas. Gifting goods can feel more sincere than giving money, and these in-kind gifts help the clubs to offer accessible care for local kids.
5. Find Your Favorite Way to Give
There are some truly wonderful charities doing critical work, and the truth is that none of them can function without financial gifts. No matter the dollar amount, any contribution will help. Do some research and find an organization that speaks to you and the causes you care about. Here are some ideas:
Make-A-Wish Wyoming
Help to make something awesome happen for a child in Central Wyoming who needs a win by donating to Make-A-Wish and specifying your gift locally.
American Red Cross
Support the victims of home fires, help with disaster relief, or specify your gift for local or national needs by giving to the American Red Cross
Volunteers of America - Northern Rockies
Donate to the Volunteers of America - Northern Rockies, a Wyoming organization that provides veteran services addressing homelessness and health, outreach programs for community members in need, and affordable housing solutions for seniors.
Self Help Center
Show support for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and elder abuse by giving to the Self Help Center, a local nonprofit that provides advocacy for these groups and offers a 24-hour hotline, as well as a 30-day emergency safe house.
Check out our blog for more ways to stay plugged into the Casper community in the coming year.