Written by Katie Robrish | Published December 2024

Make your hot chocolate and put on those holiday songs and movies—the winter holidays are here! It’s time to unwind, get cozy, and spend time with loved ones. While you partake in holiday festivities and reflect on what you’re grateful for, it’s also a great time to help others in need. Here are five ways that BU alums can make an impact in their communities while also supporting fellow Terriers.

1. Volunteer at or donate to a local food bank

The center of holiday traditions around the world, food serves as a means of survival and connection. And while the holidays are for some a time to indulge in comfort food with loved ones, many folks struggle with where their next meal will come from. By volunteering at a local food bank, you can help reduce hunger around the holidays.

You can find opportunities to help at organizations like The Greater Boston Food Bank. Additionally, you can bring nonperishable food items to BU’s Food Pantry.

💡Pro tip: You can contribute to BU’s overall impact by logging your volunteer hours through BU’s Global Days of Service.

2. Assist at a program for unsheltered individuals

As the weather gets colder, it becomes especially dangerous for unsheltered folks. Volunteering at a shelter in your community during the holidays is one way you can support unhoused individuals and families. For Boston-based alumni who enjoy working with children, there are opportunities at Horizons for Homeless Children, led by alum Kate Barrand (Questrom’85). Many patients at Boston Medical Center (BMC), BU’s primary teaching hospital, struggle with homelessness as well. Discover volunteer opportunities at BMC here. To find shelters in and outside of Boston, you can look at the National Coalition for the Homeless.

3. Support nonprofits created by BU alums

Supporting social causes is a great way to give back, and your contribution can make an impact around the world. Created by alumna Tess Pollins (CGS’20, CAS’22), Project Lots of Love supports the Chakuwama Orphanage facilities and their operations in Tanzania. Another organization you can support is GLAM4GOOD. Founded by Mary Alice Stephenson (CGS’87, COM’90), GLAM4GOOD provides clothing and personal care products to those who have difficulty accessing them.

4. Help BU students access professional clothing

With the new year right around the corner, many students are seeking their next job opportunity, but not everyone can afford to purchase professional work attire. BU’s Professional Clothing Closet (PCC) offers those items—and personalized style advice—to students to rent. Make a gift to the PCC to help students dress for success!

💡Pro tip: If you’re looking to network or volunteer with fellow alums, you can do so by joining a regional or affinity group on BU Connects.

5. Do your holiday shopping at an alumni-owned small business

This holiday season, support small businesses and fellow BU alums! Owned by alum Ilah Cibis (CFA’02), Ilah in Worcester, MA has lots of fun jewelry pieces designed by Ilah herself. If you’re looking for stylish clothing, wellness products, and home decor, check out Leigh Held’s (COM’04) small business Shop Purple Umbrella. For more ideas, check our list of alumni-owned small businesses, and the BU Business Directory on BU Connects.