We are officially 7 sleeps away from Christmas Eve, and I feel like this season always seems to fly by in the blink of an eye. During this time of the year we often feel a strong call to give back to our communities, but there is so much need it can seem overwhelming. I promise you, giving back doesn't have to take a lot of time or money! Here are 6 easy ways you can give back this holiday season (and beyond!).
This is one that I feel particularly called to in this season of life. A home is a gift that can easily be shared with others! Simply invite people over - friends, family, neighbours, people who are away from their home and may not have anyone to share the holidays with this year. It doesn't have to be a huge undertaking or a fancy meal. This year we are hosting a drop in party after Christmas and inviting our neighbours to come by, in hopes that we can learn more about the people we are living with and connect with our community.
Whether it is time with someone you know or someone you don't, the gift of quality time is so precious. In your own circle you could arrange a coffee, lunch or even just a phone call with someone you want to show love to and connect with. In your community, check out local organizations on social media and see if they are hosting events/reach out to see if they could use a hand with serving, wrapping, or even just visiting with people who need it most.
This may seem like an obvious choice, but as the year closes out many organizations are in the final stages of planning and budgeting what they can accomplish in the upcoming year. If there is an organization or a cause close to your heart, be generous with an end of year gift that allows them to continue and grow in doing great work that you may physically not be able to assist with.
Again, this one may be a no brainer but physical gifts can be a huge blessing. This year our church collected pyjamas and meal cards for a local center for psychological care. Donate canned goods to local food banks. Buy or bake some holiday treats and take them to your neighbours or local businesses. Sort through your family's closets and donate items that no longer serve you, but could be a blessing to someone else!
This is something that could easily be overlooked, but I have recently learned how much it can impact someone else's day. Take time to pray for someone, write them a personal letter, card or even a text message letting them know you are thinking about them or praying for them. The holidays can be a joyful, busy season but also a sad, stressful season. Ask your friends and family if they have prayer requests (leave a comment or send me a message if you need a prayer warrior yourself!) or take a look through the comments on this video. If you are an active consumer of content online, take the time to send your favourite content creators gratitude and encouragement for the work that they do.
I hope these have sparked some ideas for simple ways you can give back to your local community. How do you like to give during the holidays? Share what you're doing this year in the comments, I'd love to get inspired!
keep up with me: bloglovin' | instagram | pinterest
Give your home
This is one that I feel particularly called to in this season of life. A home is a gift that can easily be shared with others! Simply invite people over - friends, family, neighbours, people who are away from their home and may not have anyone to share the holidays with this year. It doesn't have to be a huge undertaking or a fancy meal. This year we are hosting a drop in party after Christmas and inviting our neighbours to come by, in hopes that we can learn more about the people we are living with and connect with our community.
Give time
Whether it is time with someone you know or someone you don't, the gift of quality time is so precious. In your own circle you could arrange a coffee, lunch or even just a phone call with someone you want to show love to and connect with. In your community, check out local organizations on social media and see if they are hosting events/reach out to see if they could use a hand with serving, wrapping, or even just visiting with people who need it most.
Give money
This may seem like an obvious choice, but as the year closes out many organizations are in the final stages of planning and budgeting what they can accomplish in the upcoming year. If there is an organization or a cause close to your heart, be generous with an end of year gift that allows them to continue and grow in doing great work that you may physically not be able to assist with.
Give physical gifts
Again, this one may be a no brainer but physical gifts can be a huge blessing. This year our church collected pyjamas and meal cards for a local center for psychological care. Donate canned goods to local food banks. Buy or bake some holiday treats and take them to your neighbours or local businesses. Sort through your family's closets and donate items that no longer serve you, but could be a blessing to someone else!
Give thoughts & prayers
This is something that could easily be overlooked, but I have recently learned how much it can impact someone else's day. Take time to pray for someone, write them a personal letter, card or even a text message letting them know you are thinking about them or praying for them. The holidays can be a joyful, busy season but also a sad, stressful season. Ask your friends and family if they have prayer requests (leave a comment or send me a message if you need a prayer warrior yourself!) or take a look through the comments on this video. If you are an active consumer of content online, take the time to send your favourite content creators gratitude and encouragement for the work that they do.
I hope these have sparked some ideas for simple ways you can give back to your local community. How do you like to give during the holidays? Share what you're doing this year in the comments, I'd love to get inspired!
