Dear Readers,

During this unprecedented year of pandemics and politics, our best side still emerges in our urge to give. We want to celebrate the holidays, another typical time for giving, by presenting some of our region’s most worthwhile charities.

As we gather this year, many by the light of our phones and computers, we also remember the less fortunate. According to the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, nearly two million people in Los Angeles County face food insecurity. As many as one in eight of our fellow Californians don’t know when their next meal may arrive. These numbers have only gotten worse during the pandemic. The Mayor’s Fund for Los Angeles, a nonprofit set up at the beginning of the pandemic to address the needs of health care workers and others, continues to seek funds from both corporate and individual donors. We can all help bridge the gap by donating time and/ or money to these beacons of hope.

Looking for a place to volunteer or donate? You’ll find plenty to choose from on the following pages, from animal welfare, performing arts and education to civil rights, homelessness, health care and hunger. These represent just the tip of the iceberg. You can also look for opportunities online via such websites as Volunteer Match ( volunteermatch. org). Although many in- person events have been postponed, there are still myriad ways to virtually volunteer.

We hope this serves as a valuable annual guide and look forward to sharing more ideas and resources throughout the New Year.

Happy Holidays!

Los Angeles Times Advertising Team