Let's all enjoy this last month of 2025 and the festivities that come with it, Greetings,

Happy, Happy Holidays !

Experts say, to enjoy the holidays, we need to set realistic expectations by not over-scheduling, and prioritizing what matters most.

Put the focus on quality experiences, such as making time for rest and activities you love, spending time with family and friends, and taking advantage of our beautiful Florida days. 

Plan ahead and manage expectations 

• Set intentions: Clarify what you want for your holiday. Whether it's reconnecting with family, relaxing, or trying new things, having a clear goal can help you prioritize. 
• Share the load: Ask for help with tasks like cooking or decorating. Delegating jobs can reduce your stress and help others be more involved in preparations. 
• Don't try to do it all: It's easy to try to fit too many activities into a short time. Accept that "good enough" is often sufficient and say "no" to unnecessary tasks or events.

Create a positive environment

• Embrace a sense of wonder: Be present and enjoy the simple things, like holiday decorations, lights, family traditions or seasonal treats.
• Plan for quiet time: Schedule "respite time" to relax and recharge. Even short periods of rest can make a big difference. 

Focus on experiences

• Prioritize experiences over gifts: Research shows that experiences often lead to more long-term happiness than material gifts. Spend time together.
• Try something new: Step out of your comfort zone by making a new tradition, trying a new food, or exploring a local area you've never visited. 

Share happy memories

• Reminisce: Acknowledge any loss and grief but don’t dwell on sad memories. Focus on happy memories by reminiscing and telling stories that celebrate.
• Create a favorite dish to share during a festive event.
• Set a photo up at the table during a holiday gathering.
• Volunteer for, or donate to, a favorite cause during the holiday season.

Click for a helpful visual: Holidays

Every moment you share your time and talent serving our neighbors is a gift.

Thank you so much ~Leslie Rogers, Volunteer Coordinator

Every day you volunteer you create a stronger community. To share the experience of serving our county's seniors with your friends and families, please send this application link to prospective volunteers!

Here are Neighborly's volunteer needs as of this publish date:

• Meals on Wheels - Back up assistance is most needed at our St Pete, Pinellas Park, and Largo sites. Orientations are held weekly and virtual options are now available once per month. New volunteers complete the application above; existing volunteers, please see your site coordinator if you can help out a little extra.

• December 9th at 1pm: Medical Transportation orientation - Volunteers drive clients to/from medical appointments and pharmacies. Choose a region of the county, serve two to four hours per week (we'll work with your availability). No lifting or wheelchairs. Existing volunteers contact Leslie to sign up, or new volunteers click on the application link above. Currently active MOW volunteers only need to attend the second half of the orientation which starts at 1:45pm.

• Senior Diner assistance: Volunteers needed to assist with dining site clients and activities (Gulfport featured above) at our Gulfport and Palm Harbor sites. Email Leslie if interested.

• Bi-lingual Assessor Assistants - if you speak Spanish and can be available about an hour a week (work from home), you'll assist our assessors in translating assessment questions over the phone for both prospective clients and assessors. Contact Leslie if you can assist.