While the holidays are known for gathering with loved ones, dining room tables overflowing with delightful cuisine, and halls being decked with cheerful decor, it is also the perfect time to give to those in need. So, if you find yourself lost in a sea of worthy causes, we wanted to share this list of 5 charities that are near and dear to our hearts. Happy Holidays and Merry Giving!
When Austin Pets Alive (APA) was first imagined in 1997, the live music capital of the world had a kill-rate of 87%. Today, its save-rate is 97%, all thanks to APA. Pioneering innovative and lifesaving programs that target the animals most at risk of euthanasia, APA is able to fill critical gaps in Austin shelters; so, basically, it is not your average animal shelter. Through their multiple programs including Barn Cat Program, Feline Leukemia Adoption Center, Parvo Puppy ICU among others, more than 90,000 lives have been saved since 2008. Head over to their website to explore ways to help including adoption, fostering, volunteer work and monetary donations.
Committed to diversity, equity and inclusion, Breakthrough Central Texas is focused on creating a path to and through college for aspiring first-generation college students. Equipped with a proven model for both academic and personal success, Breakthrough offers academically challenging summer programs, after-school tutoring, Saturday enrichment programs and SAT/ACT preparation. While in-person volunteer meetings and services have been canceled, supporters can choose a one-time donation or recurring gift.
This women-led organization is committed to improving the community and developing the potential of all women. Exclusively educational and charitable, the Junior League of Austin supports initiatives to enhance education, health and well-being, safety and crisis intervention, the arts and the environment. Through direct financial support and volunteer hours, JLA is able to support over 30 local non-profit organizations.
Founded in 1951, We are Blood is a local 501(c)(3) organization serving over 40 hospitals and medical facilities in a 10 county area. As the exclusive community blood supplier, We Are Blood needs 200 blood donations per day to maintain a safe and healthy supply. Our very own Susan Avant is a regular donor of platelets, a type of blood cell that allows bodies to form clots. Think burn victims, premature babies, organ transplant recipients and those undergoing cancer treatment. Whole blood donations take approximately 45-60 minutes while platelet donations can take between two to three hours to complete. To join the cause, consider hosting a blood drive, volunteering, donating money or blood, and becoming a partner.
Taking to heart the quote by Friedrich Nietzsche, “Without music, life would be a mistake,” fundraising and musical education are the heart and soul of the Women’s Symphony League of Austin. Founded in 1953, the WSL has contributed more than $6 million to the Austin Symphony Orchestra and its programs. They also offer educational opportunities for the community and its children to develop an appreciation for music. Members and supporters, including Susan Avant herself, have volunteered over 15,000 hours annually, allowing them to reach more than 60,000 local children each year. As a nonprofit organization, any monetary donations are tax-deductible.
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The Avant Residential Group specializes in luxury homes in and around the greater Austin area, including off-market opportunities. They are committed to helping their clients achieve their individual real estate goals, whether seasoned sellers or buyers, savvy investors, or first-time homebuyers.