December has been flying by and we only have one more week until Christmas! This year I’ve been dedicated to giving back to my community in as many ways as I can. While volunteering is extremely rewarding, I can’t help but feel stressed with other holiday tasks looming over my head. However, I still want to do more to give back before Christmas is actually here, so I’ve compiled a list of 7 stress-free ways to give back to your community as the holiday quickly approaches. Wether you have volunteered in some way this season or not – I encourage you to choose to do one of these ideas that’ll be sure to make someone’s day!
1 – Pay Forward
If you buy coffee every morning, pay for the person behind you in line. Hopefully they will feel inspired to do the same and you’ll start a charitable trend! This idea can be applied in many other ways as well – pay for someone’s meal, leave money at a gas pump, put change in a parking meter.
2 – Tip
Wether you are at a restaurant for dinner, getting your hair done, or grabbing your morning coffee leave a little extra than normal. I’m sure getting more than a 20% tip would brighten anybody’s day.
3 – Donate
It’s never too late to donate food, clothes or toys to your local shelter. Next time you go grocery shopping pick up a few extra items that’ll help someone in need.
4 – Deliver
Tis’ the season to bake sweet treats! Make an extra plate of goodies once your done baking and bring them to your neighbors. Go the extra mile and bring your baked goods to a nearby nursing home – they’ll be sure to enjoy your special visit.
5 – Support
While you’re out doing your last-minute holiday shopping, stop in and support a local business by purchasing a gift there. If you’re more of an online shopper, try looking for a personalized, unique gift on Etsy.
6 – Greetings
If you haven’t done so already, send out some Christmas cards to family and friends that you won’t see this season. Let’s face it, opening mail is always fun when it’s not a bill.
7 – Give Thanks
Being thankful isn’t just for Thanksgiving, it’s important to recognize all of the good in your life everyday. Giving a simple thank you to someone who has helped you out during this stressful time of the year will go a long way – they’re stressed out too and will love to know they are appreciated.
There is still plenty of time to give back during this holiday season and many stress-free ways of doing so. I challenge you to do one of these giving back ideas each day up until Christmas! What have you done recently to help those in need? Let me know in the comments and I look forward to hearing about your holiday!
