The Season of Giving
As we are amid the holiday season it is important to reflect and remind ourselves of our good fortunes throughout the year. Many individuals and families manage struggles and challenges each day and lending a hand can make the world of a difference. There are a number of ways to give back to your community such as by giving time, resources or by participating in other acts of kindness. Donating time or resources in order to help others is the greatest form of self-fulfillment and satisfaction. Below are some ways that you can engage in giving back during this holiday's season.
There are many ways to give back to your community in non-monetary ways. Simple acts of kindness can go a long way in making someone's day just a little bit brighter. Here are some ways to donate a few minutes of your time:
Paying Compliments: Showing a friendly face and giving a simple compliment is the easiest way to lift someone's spirits and brighten their day. Give out compliments to your co-workers, baristas, or passers-by in order to spread a little kindness and hopefully, the compliment-receiver will pay it forward. As we are amid the pandemic and social isolation and mask-wearing are constant, it can be hard to read other’s emotions. Be sure to speak up and give off some positive energy to those around you. Tip: If you can, attempt to compliment somebody on a deeper level than appearance. Speaking to a person's personality or character can be meaningful and encouraging for the individual.
Volunteering: Volunteering your time can occur in a multitude of ways including homeless shelters, food pantries, animal rescues and more. Many organizations are operating a little differently nowadays, so make sure to call ahead and see how you can offer your assistance!
Volunteering at your local food bank or pantry may include sorting and packing food items, delivering and/or serving meals. Also, many food pantries are currently utilizing drive-up methods to distribute their items. Check out Feeding America to find a local food bank to donate your time.
Volunteering at your local animal rescue may include assisting with cleaning and caring for animals. Spending time with animals is good for your mental health in addition to feeling good about donating your time. Check out Pet Finder for some additional ways to give back to your local animal rescue.
Donating: Donating gently used clothes, books, and other items that are already in your home is a way to provide individuals way to access essentials and other particulars. Donating either directly to individuals or local second-hand shops is a good way to provide access to necessary items. My favorite way to donate is to drop items at my local second-hand/charitable shop.
There are many ways that some extra funds can be used to obtain and provide resources as well as aid in funding programs and organizations that provide essential items or services.
Food Pantries: Collecting and donating dry foods, canned goods and other non-perishable items to a local food pantry is a great way to aid in individuals and families having access food. Non-perishables such as pasta, rice, canned fruits and vegetables or other packaged items are best for donation.
Toys for Tots: Purchasing and donating to Toys for Tots can help children have gifts to open this holiday season. Many families struggle to purchase holiday gifts so making a donation will help a child have a joyful holiday. Our NJE Founder, Sara, has a long history of collecting and donating to Toys for Tots, check out Toy for Tots to learn more about how you can donate this year.
Animal Rescues: Purchasing and donating beddings, toys and food to animal rescue shelters can continue provide essentials to our furry friends in need. Additionally, donating funds directly to the shelter can help the organization continue to operate and ensure homeless animals are taken care of.
Homeless Shelters: Homeless shelters can always benefit from donations such as new or gently used clothing such as coats, hats, socks or other essentials like blankets. Donations to family shelters can include items like diapers and feminine hygiene products. Gifts cards are a valuable donation to provide for individuals and families in order to help families purchase necessities. Additionally, monetary donations to homeless shelter organizations can help programs continue to operate and shelter those in need.
Sponsor a family: If your family is financially comfortable, consider passing on some of the joy to a family who can’t afford holidays gifts or celebrations on their own. Consider teaming up with coworkers or friends to sponsor an individual or family’s holiday. Check out Doing Good Together in order to learn more about how you can sponsor a family for the holidays this year.
No matter how you plan to give this season, whether it be monetarily or socially, know that you are making a difference in your community. You never know how much your contributions and positive actions can impact someone, especially during the holiday season where hardships are often highlighted. Do your best to be a good human and it will certainly not go unnoticed.
Check out some meaningful and charitable organizations for some additional ways to give back.
If you have any other recommendations or organizations that you would like to highlight, visit our Collaboration tab or on Instagram @nothingjusteverything.
