Holiday and Volunteer Giving Guide 2012

Leslie Buscher volunteers frequently in Cedar Rapids and the surrounding communities. Over the holidays, Leslie was looking for special activities to do.

Leslie said, "I was referred to the United Way website and it was very easy to find a great volunteer opportunity. The website makes it very easy for people to find just the right fit for them if they want to volunteer."

She found a holiday gift wrapping opportunity on United Way's Holiday Volunteer and Giving Guide.  The donations made from each gift she wraps benefit Willis Dady, a United Way community partner.

Leslie also told us that she rang the bell for Salvation Army this year. When she rings the bell, she brings her therapy dog with her. "Many people love to pet the dog. They donate when they can pet the dog. Some people even would go out to their cars and come back so they could visit with the dog," she said. For her, volunteering is a great way to get herself and her dog out and about.

"I take my therapy dog to places where people need them. I had taken my dog to the Marion library so the children can read to him. I have taken him places where people are grieving. I take him to events with handicapped individuals. The dog is so good about being hugged and tugged, and will come right up and sit next to your leg."

Volunteering has become an activity for the whole family. Her husband also volunteers on the weekends. They are working with their second dog to also become a therapy dog. She even offers help to others in getting their own dogs ready to become therapy dogs, and enjoys working with individuals one-on-one.

You can also find the perfect volunteer activity to fit your life, as Leslie has done. Simply browse our volunteer site any time of the year, or check out our Holiday Guide between Thanksgiving and Christmas.