Do you have brainy relatives and friends? What about pals that enjoy a good workout? Or are you and your family looking for volunteer opportunities this holiday season? Check out a few gift options we've compiled just for you.
World Wildlife Fund for Nature
If one of your family members or friends loves nature or wildlife and exudes a passion for their protection, consider a donation in their name this holiday season to one of the largest conservation-minded organizations in the world: the World Wildlife Fund for Nature. Working to preserve nature and endangered species in 100 countries, WWF is bolstered by 5 million members across the globe and also offers a symbolic "Adopt an Animal" opportunity as another option. Visit worldwildlife.org for details.
Volunteer at the San Antonio Food Bank
Better yet, make it a family affair! The San Antonio Food Banks provides a crucial resource in our community, and what better way to get involved than give the gift of time. Volunteer opportunities range from the mobile pantry to the warehouse, as well as the community garden. Visit safoodbank.org for more information.
San Antonio Pets Alive
Does someone you know need a lifelong companion? Look no further than SAPA, which is working to make San Antonio a no-kill city. The organization has rescued more than 15,000 cats and dogs at risk for euthanasia since 2012. If you know someone who's not quite ready for a full-time pet, SAPA also connects interested locals with foster opportunities and accepts donations. Visit sanantoniopetsalive.org for upcoming volunteer opportunities and adoption specials.
Five-class pass to JoyRide cycling
Give the gift of sweat this holiday season with a class pass to one of San Antonio's newest workout studios. Located on Broadway on the first floor of the Mosaic, JoyRide cycle studio features dozens of intense, high-energy spin classes per week. While on the pricier end, a visit to JoyRide is sure to be a great workout and ultimate sweatfest. Check out joyridestudio.com for a class schedule and to purchase passes.
Synergy class card
Do you know someone who could use a little reflection and zen in their lives? Head over to Synergy at the Pearl and pick up a pass for a variety of yoga classes offered at the studio, as well as meditative dance classes. On top of a free seven-day trial period, Synergy also offers "class cards" for four, eight and 20 classes, as well as monthly and yearly memberships. Visit thesynergystudio.com for details.
National Geographic subscription
Give the gift of exploration. National Geographic is a timeless magazine that captivates readers of all ages and people of all backgrounds. With spectacular photography and thought-provoking journalism, a one-year subscription fits easily in the budget and makes a great gift for friends and relatives alike. A digital subscription only costs $12 for 12 issues and if you like the print edition, it's $15 for 12 issues. Visit nationalgeographic.com and check out a variety of gift options.
Texas Public Radio membership
Give your local public radio station a gift this year and become a member. Texas Public Radio offers a variety of memberships, which include perks and gifts. Texas Public Radio provides a service by reporting on local news and providing different perspectives on San Antonio current events. And National Public Radio does the same for us with national news. Give a gift to local public radio this year by visiting tpr.org.
Half Price Books
Give the gift of knowledge and storytelling this year by purchasing a gift card to Half Price Books for a friend or relative. The company has an online option where you can personalize gift cards. Right now, Half Price Books will give customers who purchase a $25 gift card a $5 bonus. Visit halfpricebooksonline.com and click on the gift card tab.
Haven for Hope
Not all gifts are tangible, like giving back to the community or helping those who are in need. There are plenty of volunteer opportunities in San Antonio. We suggest Haven for Hope, which tries to combat homelessness in the Alamo City and help people get back on their feet. Haven for Hope's Volunteer Center is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit havenforhope.org for more information.
Big Brothers Big Sister of South Texas
The knowledge and skills you've learned make you a great gift. You can realize that potential by volunteering for Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Texas, an organization that is all about helping children. The organization pairs a youngster with a positive role model. This program produces solid results and is meaningful to the kiddos enrolled. For more information, visit bigmentor.org and learn about volunteer opportunities.
More Holiday Gift Guides
