The Season of Giving

The best thing about the holidays isn’t the getting. It’s the giving.

Here, eight worthy causes that deserve your TLC this season.

The Gentle Barn

What: The Santa Clarita farm rehabilitates abused farm and domestic animals to become therapeutic ambassadors to at-risk youth, children with special needs, and school groups.How to Help: Socialize animals (pet pigs, hold chickens, hug cows), become a sponsor, or make a donation toward the animals’ holiday wish list.Where: 15825 Sierra Hwy., at Vasquez Way, Santa Clarita (661-252-2440 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 661-252-2440 end_of_the_skype_highlighting).


First Place for Youth

What: Through housing, education, and employment programs, this innovative organization helps former foster kids adjust to adult life.How to Help: Volunteer, fund, or donate specific items needed for events or the Community Resource Center. Where: 3530 Wilshire Blvd., at S. Normandie Ave., ste. 600, Mid-Wilshire (213-835-2700 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 213-835-2700 end_of_the_skype_highlighting).


Create Now

What: At-risk children are given creative outlets through music, writing, art, and theater workshops. Mentors take them to concerts, plays, and other cultural events for inspiration. How to Help: Mentor a child, join a committee, or donate funds and supplies.Where: 1611 S. Hope St., at Venice Blvd., ste. e, Downtown (213-747-2777 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 213-747-2777 end_of_the_skype_highlighting).


The Young Storytellers Foundation

What: An in-school arts education program that develops literacy through bringing professional writers into the classroom to help kids write their own original short screenplays. At the program’s end, professional actors perform the students’ scripts in front of an audience.How to Help: Make a donation or show your support as an audience member.Where: 923 E. Third St., at Wall St., ste. 307, Downtown (323-962-4500 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 323-962-4500 end_of_the_skype_highlighting).


TreePeople

What: The environmental org works to build more sustainable communities by planting trees and educating kids and adults on being eco-conscious.How to Help: Distribute fruit trees to low-income neighborhoods, volunteer for tree care, or dedicate a seedling to a green-obsessed pal for the holidays.Where: 12601 Mulholland Dr., at Coldwater Canyon Ave., Beverly Hills (818-753-4600 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 818-753-4600 end_of_the_skype_highlighting).


Project Angel Food

What: Professional chefs cook free, healthy meals to be delivered to those affected by HIV/AIDS, cancer, and other life-threatening illnesses throughout L.A.How to Help: Put the skills you learned on the Food Network to good use by volunteering in the kitchen or at an event.Where: 922 Vine St., at Barton Ave., Hollywood (323-845-1800 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 323-845-1800 end_of_the_skype_highlighting).


Beauty Bus Foundation

What: A makeover mobile that provides gratis in-home salon and spa services and pop-up salons for chronically or terminally ill women, men, and children.How to Help: Volunteer as a beauty professional (if you are, of course), buddy, or ambassador.Where: 2716 Ocean Park Blvd., at 28th St., ste. 1062, Santa Monica (310-392-0900 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 310-392-0900 end_of_the_skype_highlighting).


Peace Over Violence

What: This pioneering prevention center works to help end domestic and sexual violence through a 24-hour emergency hotline, individual and group counseling, self-defense initiatives, and educational programs.How to Help: Volunteer at the center or donate to your choice of services.Where: 1015 Wilshire Blvd., at Saint Paul Ave., ste. 200, Downtown (213-955-9090 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 213-955-9090 end_of_the_skype_highlighting).