Thanksgiving often kicks off the holiday season with thoughts of family, loved ones and appreciation for the things we have.

But many people also volunteer at this time of year to help those who do not have much.

But for those who don’t know where to start, here is a list of local volunteer websites and resources to help you get a feel for what is available in the area and how different passions and talents can help those in need.

Long Beach Rescue Mission

The Long Beach Rescue Mission serves the emergency needs of the hungry and homeless of the greater Long Beach area through shelter and food services, rehabilitation programs, spiritually based counseling, education and job skills classes and transitional housing.

Phone: 562-591-1292

Website: lbrm.org

Assistance League of Long Beach

It’s a nonprofit corporation that identifies and delivers philanthropic services. Assistance League of Long Beach is the largest chapter of Assistance League, with more than 900 members, according to its website.

Phone: 562-627-5650

Website: allb.org

Precious Lamb Childcare

It’s a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing children and families facing homelessness with free, Christian-centered education and care.

Phone: 562-243-1715

Website: preciouslamb.org

Christian Outreach in Action

The nondenominational, nonprofit organization follows faith-based teachings to feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, provide spiritual support to the emotionally weak and to teach them the skills necessary to reach and sustain self-sufficiency.

Phone: 562-432-1440

Website: coalongbeach.org

ChildNet

ChildNet Youth and Family Services provides safe homes, education and counseling to children and families in need.

Phone: 562-498-5500

Website: childnet.net

Rossmoor Woman’s Club

The Rossmoor Woman’s Club, which serves the communities of Rossmoor, Los Alamitos, Seal Beach and Long Beach, is a volunteer organization that raises funds for local scholarships and contributes to charitable organizations while contributing to the education, social welfare and cultural life of our community.

Phone: 562-810-7139

Website: rossmoorwomansclub.org

Mary McLeod Bethune

Transitional Center

The center assists homeless students and families within Long Beach Unified School District boundaries transition to a traditional school setting by providing school uniforms, supplemental clothing, academic assessments for appropriate classroom placement, transportation, parenting classes and more.

Phone: 562-435-2050

Honoring Our Fallen

The nonprofit organization provides family support upon the death of a military service member or first responder through programs and services.

Phone: 800-796-6359

Website: honoringourfallen.org

Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Los Angeles (spcaLA)

It’s a nonprofit animal welfare organization serving Southern California.

Phone: 562-570-SPCA (7722)

Website: spcala.com

Long Beach Animal Care Services

The shelter relies heavily on volunteers.

Phone: 562-570-7387

Website: longbeach.gov/acs/

donations/pet_literacy.asp

Long Beach Police Department

The department makes use of more than 100 residents who volunteer their time in various positions.

Phone: 562-570-5299

Website: longbeach.gov/police/

join/volunteers/

Long Beach Public Library

The library recruits volunteers to help with projects and to provide one-on-one support at its Information Center for People with Disabilities. Service Learning volunteer opportunities are also available for high school students in Long Beach Unified School District.

Phone: 562-570-7500 (ask for volunteer services)

Website: lbpl.org/info/volunteer_program/

The Long Beach Christmas Store

The eighth annual “One Day” Christmas Store will be open Dec. 20. Volunteers can help families and the kids shop. To put your name on the list, send an e-mail to BBLB.ChristmasStore@gmail.com.

Website: betterbalancelongbeach.org/

Also, don’t forget to reach out to your place of worship and other local hospitality groups for opportunities.