With the holiday season just around the corner, we all have lots on our to-do lists. From preparing big family meals to loads of gift shopping and decorating the house, our schedules are packed – throughout the season. But, what about what it’s all about? Recognizing how much we love our friends and family, having our faith guide our actions and helping to support and build the communities we belong to. Giving back during the holidays isn’t really a question – it’s a must – and really should take priority. Curious how you can give back this holiday season? Here are five simple ways to make it happen.
5 Ways to Give Back This Holiday Season
#1. Clean out your closet. This needs to be done anyway, so why not give your closet the overhaul it deserves, while also putting together a donation for your local shelter or clothing drive center. When it comes to winter, warm layers, boots, jackets – are all very expensive items – and are much needed when the temps start dropping. Figure out what you, your partner and your kiddos can donate – make it a family project.
#2. Take part in a holiday food drive. This is an easy and good one to teach young kids too. Similarly to cleaning out your closet, take a look at what non-perishables you have at home that you can donate. Whether it’s canned goods like veggies or pie filling, boxes of stuffing and mashed potatoes, you can help another family have everything they need to make a complete holiday meal.
#3. Bake cookies and share them. Rather than baking cookies and saving all of them for your family holiday, bake cookies and put together packages you can share with the neighbors. Teach your children to join you in delivering cookies to neighbors who need a little extra holiday cheer. Your sweet gesture will go a long way when it comes to helping someone feel the holiday love.
#4. Volunteer at a community center, retirement home or a local food bank. Donating your time is one of the best and most meaningful ways to give back – and you won’t believe how good it feels. Find an event, meal service or volunteer day when you can participate in something new and give back to your local community. You’ll take away memories and you’re guaranteed to make someone’s day a little bit brighter.
#5. Send a card or care package to military members. This is a good one to do at home and get the kids to join in. Make a homemade card for a military member thanking them for the service he or she is providing for our country. Put together a care package of items they might need like shower supplies, holiday goodies and maybe even some books and magazines. You might never know who receives it, but you’ll know in your heart it made someone’s day.
Have you thought about making giving back a priority for your holiday season?
