Charter One Realty Blog

With so much going on in our lives and the world, it is important to make time for charitable giving. With the holiday season officially upon us, it is always nice to take a moment to reflect and appreciate the things we have. During that moment of reflection, think about the ways you are connected to the Lowcountry and how you could deepen the relationship by supporting your neighbors in need. 

Giving back during the holidays doesn’t always require funds. Finding charities that align with your beliefs means you can make your resources of time or money meaningful for the organization and your family as well.

Whether it’s supporting the community, keeping kids safe, finding homes for animals, maintaining our beautiful scenery, or something else dear to your heart, there is a cause in the Lowcountry you can support, especially this season. Check out our list of seasonal opportunities from some of our local charities:

There are many reasons and even more ways to help keep Lowcountry kids safe and happy during the holidays. Our friends at CAPA (Child Abuse Prevention Association), serve to support children in the foster system while educating the community on how to keep kids safe. During the holidays, they need extra support in the form of food and gifts for the kids.

Another way to help Lowcountry children enjoy the season is to partner with Bluffton Self Help and host a Toy Drive. According to their website, “this year, we will distribute holiday meals to more than 400 neighbors and nearly 2,600 children will wake up to something special under the tree.”

For the golfers, getting involved in a meaningful way can be done with First Tee of the Lowcountry, which teaches kids the game of golf and instills virtues like respect, perseverance, and honesty. This organization’s goal is to make a positive impact on their lives. 

Habitat for Humanity is a well-known program, and there are two chapters close by, Hilton Head Island Regional and Lowcountry Habitat for Humanity. Bonus tip: if you love to go thrifting, add the ReStore by Habitat for Humanity for spots to check out! Their donations-based shops support the organization and you can find wonderful holiday gift options there:

• ReStore: 18 Plantation Park Dr., Bluffton, SC 29910 | 843-757-9995 

Winter months often mean our community members need extra support. The Beaufort-Jasper Economic Opportunity Commission advocates for Lowcountry citizens who need assistance while providing programs to help them improve their quality of life. After the impact of COVID-19, those with the means to help the less fortunate can find multiple ways to get involved through this commission. 

Did you know organizations like Hopeful Horizons offer support, therapy, and a safe space for Lowcountry community members seeking help with their mental health? If this cause is close to your heart, consider learning more about Hopeful Horizons and how you can help grow their mission. 

For some with special needs, equine therapy can be tremendously helpful in learning how to navigate the world and the Heroes on Horseback organization provides programs to help people with a range of capabilities.

If you’re an animal lover, be sure to join PAL (Palmetto Animal League) for their holiday fundraising efforts. This no-kill shelter is deeply committed to saving animals at risk of euthanization and matching them with safe forever homes. The Humane Society has two campuses where you can find the perfect pet for your home, one in Hilton Head and a brand new facility in Okatie.

If the picturesque natural habitat we call home is important to you, giving your time to a conservation organization might be perfect for you. The Port Royal Sound Foundation is a worthy cause with countless opportunities for volunteering. Charleston Parks Conservancy is dedicated to keeping the Lowcountry beautiful and clean. The Coastal Conservation League is all about protecting the South Carolina coastal plain for today and tomorrow, and we certainly are very grateful! 

Conclusion

If you’re not sure where to start with your seasonal charitable giving, consider a donation or volunteering for a specific fundraising event. Many organizations have volunteer boards of advisors, and usually have an open door of ways for others to contribute. 

This holiday season, Lowcountry organizations large and small and old and new need your support. After reflecting on how you would like to connect with the community, check out charities that support:

1. Kids in the Lowcountry: CAPA, Bluffton Self Help and First Tee

2. Housing and Health: Habitat for Humanity, Hopeful Horizons, Heroes on Horseback

3. Animals: PAL, Hilton Head Humane Society

4. Conservation: Port Royal Sound Foundation, Charleston Parks Conservancy, Coastal Conservation League 

Which charities in the Lowcountry are you supporting this year? Did we miss any great organizations you love? 

Share with us in the comments below!