February is the month of love, and we’re not just talking about Valentine’s Day or romantic love. We're talking about love for our communities, neighbors, and those in need of a hand-up. As it turns out, February is dedicated to a multitude of great causes, which means more opportunities for you to put God's love into action!
Habitat Readiness Month
Okay, so this one isn’t necessarily a dedicated thing for the month of February, but it's important for our organization. Habitat for Humanity of Kanawha & Putnam's leaders, staff, and volunteer committees spend the last full month of winter preparing our multiple programs for our non-profit's busiest time of the year. We have five homes under construction; one is almost complete! Construction season ramps up in March, so we take this month to get ready and plan for our annual influx of volunteers and homebuyer applicants.
Spring break is closer than you think. In order to graduate, most college students are required to give back to their community through volunteering. Habitat is ready for the influx of student volunteers. For many volunteers, construction just isn't their thing. That's okay! Habitat has other volunteer opportunities such as serving on guidance committees or helping with donations and merchandising at our two Habitat ReStore locations - Charleston and Teays Valley.
It's cold, and we want you to have an enjoyable, meaningful volunteer experience. Right now, all of our volunteer opportunities are inside. However, next month, outdoor work will pick up significantly.
Check out a few ways you can lend a helping hand this February by celebrating some of these amazing causes below.
1. Black History Month
Also known as African-American history month, this is a month dedicated to recognizing the achievements of African Americans in our history. You can participate by learning more about these accomplishments or joining discussions in your local community. Plus, you can link up with an organization dedicated to civil rights and support black-owned businesses and organizations.
2. National Cancer Prevention Month
More than 1.6 million people are diagnosed with cancer every year in the United States. Chances are, everybody knows somebody who has been affected by cancer. Take this time to fundraise for an organization helping to research or fight cancer. Write cards for those who are undergoing chemo treatment or round up gifts to brighten their days.
3. American Heart Month
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one person dies every 36 seconds from cardiovascular disease. In order to help slow this disease, February is the month to get active and support healthy habits! Start by raising awareness with the first Friday in February, which is National Wear Red Day® to raise awareness. Then, challenge your friends and family to stick with you on building healthy habits throughout the month. This could be a challenge to count steps or even to kick smoking to the curb!
4. Canned Food Month
No matter the month, day, or year—there will always be people in search of life’s basic needs. Use February as a time to celebrate Canned Food Month. While this month was originally created to help break down myths about the nutrition of canned foods, you can use this month to give back nonperishable food items to your local pantry! Involve your friends and neighbors to help spread the word and donate more for your community.
