‘Tis the Season: Giving the Gift of Your Time

•

By Mary Lou Dahms, Racial Justice Ministry

As our thoughts turn toward family and holiday gatherings, it’s also a good time to think of those beyond the warm embrace of our families and the glow of our lit chalice and bring them within that warmth and light. The Racial Justice Ministry is part of the Council for Faith in Action and supports members and friends in becoming active advocates for bringing about racial justice. The journey towards racial justice is a long haul. It has not become any easier in recent years, not only for people who suffer injustice, but
 also for allies in their support work.

Here are some opportunities you may want to consider. They are highlighted on the UUCWC website under Justice > Council for Faith in Action > Racial Justice Ministry > Action/Advocacy. These are some of the opportunities highlighted there.

  • Through Urban Promise, you can work with children from Grades K-12 as a tutor or classroom aide, or even work on outdoor day trips or boat-building projects.
  • You can volunteer to help serve and prepare meals at the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen, a long-time UUCWC partner, or prepare and donate meal bags or hygiene kits.
  • Through Isles, you can work in or support a community garden or offer pro bono services in your area of expertise.
  • You can volunteer with Welcoming the Stranger to provide free English, citizenship, and computer classes to immigrants and refugees in nearby counties in both PA and NJ.
  • You can help sort and pack food through the Bucks County Opportunity Council (BCOC) or volunteer with the Interfaith Food Alliance. BCOC also offers food delivery services.
  • You can volunteer at Anchor House to work with at-risk youth who have suffered abuse, neglect, or homelessness, or participate in the Annual 500-mile Foundation Ride for Runaways, from July 11-18, 2026.

If you want to connect with other church members and friends who have volunteered with or worked at some of these organizations, email the Racial Justice Ministry at racialjustice@uucwc.org, and we will put you in touch. During this holiday season, commit to this kind of gift-giving, the gift of your time and energy. There’s no better time than now to give the gift of your time.