I often find myself at a Marriott Hotel when traveling as it seems that the majority of them fall under the Bonvoy Travel program. I need my points and I like the mobile key card which makes checking in a snap.
With the holidays right around the corner, travelers will be presented with numerous occasions to donate their time, items or money for the greater good. From chances to volunteer to specials benefiting local organizations, each Midwest city offers its own unique traditions to help those in need. Marriott Hotels across the Midwest are providing prime opportunities for guests looking to open their hearts and give back while vacationing during this joyous time of the year.
Chicago, Illinois
The 42nd Annual Chicagoland Toys for Tots Motorcycle Parade, hosted on Sunday, December 1, attracts between 40,000 and 50,000 motorcyclists each year and provides thousands of toys to children and families in need during the holiday season. For those who do not own a motorcycle, the Chicagoland Toys for Tots organization is always looking for parade volunteers to assist in the smooth execution of the event through toy collection, photography, security, and more. Those traveling to Chicago for this event may stay at either Sheraton Grand Chicago or The Westin Michigan Avenue, which are both a 35-minute drive from the celebration. Patrons looking to purchase a brand-new toy to donate to the organization may stay at the Residence Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile, which is located within walking distance of all the stores on the iconic Magnificent Mile.
Related: Reclaiming My Time in Chicago
Green Bay, Wisconsin
The Hotel Northland, Autograph Collection is teaming up with the New Community Shelter, an organization that addresses homelessness and hopelessness through education and supportive services, to supply holiday turkey dinners for the shelter’s residents. Throughout the month of December, the property will also donate one dollar from every turkey special ordered to the New Community Shelter. Additionally, hotel staff will ask visitors if they would like to match the dollar donation.
Detroit, Michigan
Serving 1,500 children annually, The Children’s Center of Detroit’s Holiday Shop provides less-fortunate parents with the ability to surprise their families with gifts under their Christmas trees. Free of charge, guests may shop a wide-array of brand new, donated items. Following “purchase,” gifts are wrapped on-site and ready for the holiday festivities. Those in the area that are looking to donate their time or never-been-used items to this organization can stay at the Aloft Detroit at the David Whitney, Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center or the Courtyard Detroit Downtown, which are all located just 20 minutes via car from the center.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
The Twin Cities Salvation Army offers aid to its community through all seasons of the year with a diverse range of programming. Those visiting this area during the holiday season may volunteer with the organization to assist with coat distribution, meal service, food distribution and more. With multiple donation centers in and around the city, travelers throughout Minneapolis have many opportunities to make a difference. Guests staying at the Courtyard Minneapolis- St. Paul Airport or Delta Hotels Minneapolis Northeast are just a short drive away from the multiple Salvation Army locations in St. Paul and Minneapolis including 2024 N. Lyndale Ave. and 3740 S. Nicollet Ave. Additionally, Moxy Minneapolis Uptown is located just a 15-minute drive to the Salvation Army on 1604 E. Lake Street.
Cincinnati, Ohio
The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year for food banks and as they try to accommodate the rise in demand, volunteers become a major asset to these organizations. The Freestore Foodbank, a local Cincinnati organization, provides food insecure individuals and families with nutritious meals and programs that encourage stability. Visitors at the Courtyard Cincinnati Covington and Renaissance Cincinnati Downtown may volunteer to assist in packing meals in boxes, sorting food donations and much more, as these properties are located 10 minutes away from the food bank.
