the BEAT of the week: Thanksgiving volunteer opportunities.

This Thursday, many of us get to celebrate all for which we are thankful with a beautiful, gut-busting meal. But as we all know, there are people out there who aren't as lucky. Take some time out this week to consider the little things you can do to make a big difference in others' lives.

Echo Park Now has a great round-up of local volunteer options for the holiday. There's the Echo's Gobble Gobble Give, where you can bring in a food dish, toiletries and blankets and clothing on Thanksgiving Day. A Place Called Home is taking pie donations. The L.A. Regional Food Bank needs help with food sorting.

It can take a couple hours but will be well worth it in the end. If you've got some time, you can lend it. Happy Thanksgiving everyone, and don't forget it's the season of giving.

-- Chau Tu