Donations always reach their annual peak during the holiday season. And while the holidays may be behind us, the need for help persists. If you're looking for opportunities to make a donation or give the gift of your time and effort in the Madison area, we're here to help. Here's your guide to giving back to the community in Dane County this February.

How to Give Back in Madison, WI

The River Food Pantry - Madison, WI

Address: 3301 Packers Ave., Madison, WI 53704

As South Central Wisconsin's busiest food pantry, The River Food Pantry serves over 4,000 people every week throughout the region. This local, grassroots nonprofit provides a wide range of services, including to-go meals, online grocery orders, mobile meals, and free groceries for pickup or delivery. Financial donations and donations of nonperishable food items are always needed. 

Habitat for Humanity of Dane County - Madison, WI

Address: 6201 Odana Road, Madison, WI 53719

The local outpost of a global nonprofit organization that works to provide housing for those in need, Habitat for Humanity of Dane County offers a wide range of donation and volunteer opportunities. Ways to help include:

• Make a financial donation of any amount.
• Volunteer at a build on a one-time or recurring basis. Construction knowledge is a plus, but plenty of opportunities are available with no experience needed. 
• Donate used items that can be sold at Habitat ReStore, Habitat for Humanity's thrift store chain, or volunteer to work a shift at the store.

RSVP of Dane County - Madison, WI

Address: 6501 Watts Road #250, Madison, WI 53719

The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Dane County is an organization that specifically connects individuals age 55 and up with volunteer opportunities. It's a win-win, providing seniors with opportunities to meet new friends and stay active and healthy while also making a positive difference in the lives of others. Learn more about their volunteer opportunities and programs here.

United Way of Dane County - Madison, WI

Address: 2059 Atwood Ave., Madison, WI 53704

Helping connect those in need with the right resources in Madison and the surrounding areas, United Way of Dane County offers countless opportunities to donate or volunteer in Dane County. Individuals can volunteer their time at a wide range of programs or through workplace volunteering. The United Way also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including these upcoming events in February:

• LINC Trivia at Sugar River Pizza on February 9 at 6:30 p.m. Enjoy a fun night of trivia, with donations supporting local families through United Way's Plan for Community Well-Being.
• United Way Bluegrass Benefit at Barrymore Theatre on February 15 at 1 p.m. This annual fundraiser features music from the bands of the Southern Wisconsin Bluegrass Music Association and helps raise funds and awareness for United Way. 

Foundation for Dane County Parks - Madison, WI

Address: 5201 Fen Oak Drive #208, Madison, WI 53718

The philanthropic partner of Dane County Parks, the Foundation for Dane County Parks provides a wealth of services that support and enhance the parks. To date, the foundation has raised and provided over two million dollars to support programs ranging from accessibility improvements and youth education to land restoration across the 19,000-acre park system. There are many ways to contribute to the foundation, including:

• Financial donations
• Volunteering at sponsored volunteer days
• Legacy giving
• Memorial and tribute gifts

Reach out today to learn more about life in Dane County, including ways to give back to the local community.