Take Your Holiday Spirit into the New Year by Linda Davis

The holiday season is a time of great generosity as people reflect on the previous year, think about why they are thankful, and look for ways to support those in need. It is important to remember that homelessness organizations need your help year-round. When you feel like donating your time or money this holiday season, consider waiting until another time next year. If you are a provider, don’t be afraid to ask volunteers and donors to extend their generosity into the New Year. Here are some ideas. Content:

Consider throwing a holiday party at a local homeless service agency in January, February or March, rather than in November or December. The holidays are often a time of abundance for these programs. Many special meals, donations and services are provided by an army of volunteers that are eagerly anticipated, and soon disappear after December.

If you are considering volunteering during the holiday season, why not put it off until later in the winter, or even in the spring or summer? The months after the holidays can be especially trying for people who are homeless and your volunteer efforts would be a true gift.

At any time of year, join forces with colleagues from work, civic groups or spiritual communities. You could create and serve meals, develop care packages, or raise money to help a family with first and last month’s rent and a security deposit.

Not sure what to do and when to do it? Contact your local homeless service provider network. Decide which program you want to support and contact them to determine what they need, and when it would be most helpful.

Here are some links to help you do your holiday homework:

Continuum of Care Contacts (organized by state/region):
http://hudhre.info

United Way:
www.211.org

VolunteerMatch
www.volunteermatch.org

Idealist
www.idealist.org

Volunteers are essential to many homeless service agencies. Whether you are new to an organization or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you to make the most of your time as a volunteer. If your organization counts on volunteers, share these tips with the team – and add your own! Social Worker Continuing Education
1. Dress comfortably.
You will probably be on your feet so make sure that your shoes and clothes can go the distance.

2. Show up on time and ready to work.
Chances are your program relies on volunteers, so be punctual and let someone know when you will be late or absent.

3. Let your supervisor know when you arrive.
Even if you are a regular volunteer, check in at the beginning of your shift to find out where you can pitch in.

4. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Staff appreciate the gift of your time and want you to feel comfortable. Asking questions helps to clarify expectations for everyone.

5. Know where and when to have conversations with consumers and staff.
Many programs have rules about loitering in certain areas and prefer that volunteers finish their assigned tasks before spending time talking with consumers and team members.

6. Be open-minded.
As a volunteer, you may be asked to assist with a variety of tasks, depending on the changing needs of your agency. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try something new.

7. Know your boundaries.
Burnout is an issue for direct service providers and volunteers. Be a sensitive listener, but understand the limitations of your role. Volunteers are not expected to do the work of case managers or clinicians.

8. Have a sense of humor.
Working in homeless services brings many challenges and rewards. When you are faced with a tough situation, a little humor goes a long way.

9. Don’t be afraid to make suggestions.
You bring a different perspective that can be very valuable.

10. Remember that your contribution matters.

Winter Wellness Planner

Developed by CSP-NJ Institute for Wellness 2
and Recovery Initiatives – John Garafano, BS, CPRP, CFT , Jay Yudof, MS, CPRP & Peggy Swarbrick, PhD, OT,CPRP -December 2010

Winter Memories

Many of us may have good memories of winter/holiday gatherings, and/or outdoor winter recreation. Some people face challenges including isolation, limited ability to exercise, memories of losses, overeating, and overspending. This wellness planner is designed to help you plan ahead so you can maintain a sense of wellness during the winter season.

Describe a positive winter memory.
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What do you see as the benefits of the winter season?
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Holidays

The holiday season, (the holidays) is an annual festive period. Various studies have shown that the winter holiday season can have some impacts on health (social, emotional, physical etc).

What do you like to do during the Holiday Season?
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How do you celebrate the Holiday season?
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Winter Challenges

Winter is the coldest season of the year in temperate climate, between autumn and spring. At the winter solstice, the days are shortest and the nights are longest, with days lengthening as the season progresses after the solstice.
Challenges during the holidays Many holidays occur during the winter months when people are already more susceptible to the common cold, flu, and depressed mood Holidays usually involve the obligation of spending money on gifts or food Alcohol is typically served during holiday functions which can be a trigger for some Holiday travel can be a major source of contention and stress. Dealing with traffic and the short-tempers of other travelers can also be quite challenging Social anxiety may be heightened when we are invited to parties with large gatherings of people.

General Stressors and Triggers

Physical
o Diet and nutrition, physical activity, sleep, Emotional
o Losses may impact harder during winter time Social
o Too much stimuli or may not have a support network so sense of loneliness becomes overwhelming
o Drinking can be a trigger for some people Financial
o Spending can become out of control Spiritual
o Sense of purpose and meaning can be impacted Occupational
o Work routines are altered which can impact rhythm and – over or under productive

What triggers do you face during the holidays?
(Examples include large groups of people, overspending, and alcohol at parties)
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List supporters and how you can connect with them during the holidays?
Supporter Methods to Connect
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Diet and Nutrition Eat several small meals so that you are not starving when it comes time to eat a holiday feast. Drink water before your meal so that you get full faster. Watch portions. Aim to eat mostly vegetables and fruit on your plate and opt out of breads and biscuits. Opt for water instead of soda, alcoholic beverages, or caffeinated drinks. Be aware that many of us get less fresh fruit and vegetables during winter months – look for healthy ways to replace these vital nutrients.
Physical Activity and Environment: Walk around a mall with friends Join an exercise class or fitness group in the community Clean your living area Enjoy outdoor winter activities Exercise extra care to prevent slips and other winter injuries, and make sure that kids and elders do the same Health Care Practice good prevention for colds and flu such as frequent hand washing If you follow self-management for a chronic health condition, don’t let holiday events, meals. Travel, etc. let you get derailed
Family, Friends, and Supporters: Consider who in your support network is a positive supporter and who might be unhealthy for you Decide on how much socialization time you need in order to feel well Make holiday get-togethers a positive opportunity to renew acquaintances with family and friends you may not see or speak with very often Make attempts to “give back” whenever possible

Finances: Plan ahead in terms of spending and know your limits Consider ways to give gifts other than spending money

Rest/Relaxation: Know your limits and plan ahead for proper balance of sleep, relaxation, and activity. Try to get enough sleep/rest each night, and avoid oversleeping during the winter months

Spiritual: Attend spiritual gatherings and celebrate in the holiday season Find ways to express gratitude each day

Expressive Art: Art can be a great way to express yourself during the holidays Consider attending a museum or holiday light show Attend a play with a holiday theme Think about combining friends/family and expressive arts – do a project or go to a show with some of the kids (young and old) in your life. MFT Continuing Education
When considering our holiday/winter wellness, it is a good idea to think of the self-care practices that we need in order to feel well and maintain/improve our overall health status. Activities like exercise, spiritual connection, social contact, and reading can all be tools that help us to stay well during the winter season. List your top five strategies for staying well this season:

Wellness Strategy How often I will do it When I will start
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