Helping Local: Here’s How to Give Back This Holiday

South Milwaukeeans always step up to help those in need — and that’s especially the case around Christmas.

Don’t know where to start? Here are some opportunities to give back.

First, you can help by donating cash or toys for homeless kids on Christmas Eve, as I’ve written about. Thanks to everyone who has donated toys and money for toys so far!

• Of course, I always turn to Human Concerns, and they are serving more people than ever. I’m told they can especially use hygiene and cleaning supplies now, but please consider giving money, too. I know they can use it not only during the holiday season, but all year long. And why not give your time?
• Get behind the effort to start the South Milwaukee Industrial Museum. Details — and links to give — here. 
• Interfaith is a great organization aimed at serving our seniors that just happens to be based locally at Trinity Lutheran Church (my church). Their mission: “help older adults in the neighborhood remain living in their own homes in a safe and dignified manner.”
• “We serve.” That’s our motto as South Milwaukee Lions. They can use your support throughout the year, financial and in man and woman power, to in turn give back to local organizations in need. The impact they have is real.
• The Rotary Club of Mitchell Field — serving five cities, including South Milwaukee, and Bay View — is also doing some great things, from serving Thanksgiving dinners to needy families to providing college scholarships to high school seniors, and much, much more.
• Buy a brick for Da Crusher statue! It’s coming in June. 
• South Milwaukee Performing Arts Center. Support the terrific performing arts in South Milwaukee!
• Want to support classroom and other projects in our terrific local schools? Start with South Milwaukee Legacy.
• Get behind local athletes by donating to the local sports booster clubs, or give the gift of music by donating to help the South Milwaukee Music Parents.
• Or maybe help one of the groups supporting our terrific green spaces: Friends of the Mill Pond and Oak Creek Watercourse, Friends of Grant Park or Restore the Lagoon.
• And how about the Root-Pike Watershed Initiative Network? They are the nonprofit leading the public information efforts for the ongoing Oak Creek watershed restoration study.
• Help the South Milwaukee Historical Society preserve our proud past, for our promising future.

Did I miss any? I’m sure I did. Send your favorite local charities along!