As cold winter days continue to drag on, it can be hard for people to think about anything other than getting under a warm blanket and going to bed. The days turn darker faster, and it seems like there is no time in the day to be productive. While these feelings can overwhelm someone very quickly, it is important to take a step back and find different activities to use your time productively.

Since winter days in Minnesota mean outdoor activities like mini-golf and swimming pools are closed, volunteering can serve as an alternative to these closed activities. Instead of going directly home after school, grab a group of friends and volunteer at a local center. Most volunteer organizations like homeless shelters are more in need of volunteers during the winter because of the the long, cold months. Homeless shelters are looking for warm clothes like jackets and hats that people can wear, and others are looking for volunteers to help serve warm food. Volunteering for even one hour, twice a week can help the long winter days feel shorter and gives people a reason to leave the house and get something done.

Not only does volunteering help those in need, it connects people together. Volunteering is usually a group effort, and it forces someone who may have gone to volunteer alone the chance to meet new people. It feels good to give back to your community and creating new connections is a positive along with that.

It is important for people to take time out of their schedules during the winter to volunteer because of the busy summer season fast approaching. Vacations and summer jobs can easily take over people’s to-do lists during the summer months, and volunteering soon becomes a thing from the past. While there is still snow on the ground, make it a goal to help out your community and volunteer.