The holiday season in the United States leads to increased volunteer activity from Thanksgiving to New Year’s as food banks, charity groups, and community programs receive more support from local residents. These organizations prepare meals, organize donation drives, and assist with public spaces. Experts say the emotional and cultural resonance of the season strengthens the propensity for people to help because many traditions encourage gratitude and charitable behavior. Researchers note that the period’s customs create a salient environment that encourages participation in service activities.

Psychologists who study social behavior report that gratitude and generosity often grow together. Academic studies show a global convergence between festivals and altruistic actions in celebrations such as Christmas, Hanukkah, Diwali, Ramadan, and Eid al-Fitr. Evolutionary research adds that early human groups depended on cooperation for survival despite limited physical strengths. Experts explain that witnessing acts of kindness can inspire others to behave generously. Many older adults volunteer after retirement, joining community programs, helping with administrative needs, or assisting in disaster-response efforts. Researchers also say that simple gestures—such as greeting cards or reaching out to old friends—can rebuild relationships. These observations show how gratitude, tradition, and community support continue to influence volunteer work even outside holiday months.