Often times when we think of the word “giving” during the holiday season we think of a beautiful gift wrapped box under the Christmas tree or the smiles we receive when we hand someone a present. What we often times neglect to think about is giving the gift of volunteerism. In your local community there are always organizations and people who would deeply appreciate a helping hand especially during this time of the year. When you choose to give the gift of volunteerism, you not only leave an impact on the people you helped, but also on yourself. If you find something you’re passionate about, giving back to it will fill your heart with love and make you appreciate everything even more.

There are so many different places and options when it comes to volunteering. Anyone can volunteer no matter how old they are or how much time they have to give. You can even introduce your children to the beautiful gift of volunteerism at a young age by having them help you make sandwiches to then deliver to the homeless. Volunteering comes in a variety of ways and allows you to incorporate your talents and strengths. For example if you love to sing you can go Christmas Caroling at a nursing home. Here are just a few ideas of ways to volunteer or help a local organization this holiday season:

• Help at an animal shelter                                                
• Collect donations such as warm winter clothes
• Write letters or make care packages for the military
• Collect toys or presents for children in need
• Donate clothing to California Wildfire victims
• Serve food at a homeless shelter
• Deliver a meal to a family in need
• Bake extra Christmas cookies to donate
• Give a monetary donation to a non-profit
• Offer to babysit for a single parent or family during their holiday overtime shifts
• Make cards for children in hospitals

This year instead of overwhelming your mind with wish lists and spending, I challenge you to open your heart to giving. When you give the gift of volunteerism you are able to give someone a gift that money can’t buy: your time. By providing a person in need with a simple hot meal or coat you may inspire them or give them the hope they need to find strength. It’s time that we put down the credit cards and come together to spread love and hope within our communities during the holiday season. All it takes is one act of giving back to forever change a life.

Love Always,

Malorie