Community Connections
Advocacy and philanthropy have always been an intrinsic part of our personal life, and here at
Susan Dawn Spiritual Connections we strive to nurture the essence of community by being of service with many free resources for the spiritual path; however, as our own platform has grown, we're excited to provide assistance where needed in new and expanded ways.
Community Connections is a new section of our website that highlights charitable organizations to help uplift and enrich the lives of others in tangible ways while continuing to build awareness. As often as possible, we'll feature one of our favorite organizations with information for support.
Featured Organization
It's the Holiday Season, and we know that in times of growing uncertainty and instability it can be hard to believe in the magic of the season. Our featured organization is one of the few nationally-operated organizations that we personally support and which has a number of opportunities to bring joy to children of economically disadvantaged families.
The Marine Corps Reserves Toys For Tots Program was founded in 1947 and is now run by the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. Per their mission statement, their objective is to "help less fortunate children throughout the United States experience the joy of Christmas; to play an active role in the development of one of our nation’s most valuable resources – our children; to unite all members of local communities in a common cause for three months each year during the annual toy collection and distribution campaign; and to contribute to improving communities in the future."
The Toys for Tots Foundation has a number of support programs, including: The Toys for Tots Literacy Program, the Toys for Tots Native American Program, and the known Toys for Tots Gift-Giving Program. They offer multiple ways to support their mission, including direct donations, local chapter gift collections, and a virtual toy box.
Learn more about the Toys for Tots Program and how to support them at
More Ideas
Prefer to keep it local?
There are a number of ways you can support your community this holiday season!
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Churches and temples, community centers, and local chapters of non-profit organizations often have donation drives for clothing, basic necessities, and toys or other gifts for families in need. Reach out directly to find out how you can help!
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Animal shelters are always in need of blankets, bedding, towels, or other necessities such as cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, collars and leashes, and toys to keep animals waiting for a forever home comfortable and cared for. Contact your local animal shelter to find out what's on their wishlist!
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Food banks are always looking for donations to support families during the holiday season. Monetary donations are especially appreciated so food bank operators can shop for what's needed most. Check with your local food bank or community center for additional information!
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Spread a little love and joy with holiday cards! Elderly men and women in nursing homes often feel forgotten and neglected during the holiday season, and thoughtful cards go a long, long way. If you have children, ask them to draw a picture to include! Reach out to the director or coordinator of a local nursing home for names of residents who could use a little cheer!
There are dozens of way to share the love and spread more joy this holiday season... But don't let it stop there.
Keep it going throughout the year!
Highlighted charitable organizations have been vetted by GuideStar and are listed as 501(c)3 non-profit organizations. Selected organizations for our Community Connections page are typically smaller organizations that may assist persons or animals in need. Information provided is for awareness purposes only. Susan and Susan Dawn Spiritual Connections have no professional affiliation with any of the featured organizations and does not and will not accept donations on their behalf. While the purpose of this page is to bring awareness to and encourage the support of these organizations, please consider your own personal due-diligence when donating.
Disclosure: As a Lyme disease survivor and advocate for patients and caregivers with chronic illness, Susan is the founder of the non-profit organization, LymeBrave Foundation. To maintain a sense of ethical integrity in separation of Susan Dawn Spiritual Connections, LymeBrave Foundation will not be a featured charitable organization as part of Susan Dawn Spiritual Connections' Community Connections. However, for those who wish to learn more about Lyme disease or who wish to support LymeBrave Foundation and its work, please visit here: LymeBrave Foundation.