It might be the season of gift cards, holiday lights, and family feasts, but it’s the season of giving, too; the holidays are much brighter when we give a hand to our community. If you’re looking for ways to help members of your community thrive this winter and all year long, consider engaging in one (or all) of the following:
Donate Gently Used Items
Donating gently used items is both helpful and practical. It provides those in need with vital necessities such as shoes, coats, and sweaters. It also lets you clear the clutter from your closet and better organize your home.
You can often donate most anything in good condition, including toys, gaming systems, musical instruments, and sports equipment (although different organizations have different rules). If you’re looking for someone who’ll pick up free of charge, consider using Pickup Please, which supports various charities.
Volunteer
Volunteering is one of the simplest and most direct ways to give back to the community; few gifts are more thoughtful than the gift of time. Fortunately, there are all sorts of places around Boulder looking for volunteers. From working in outdoor programs to helping seniors, rolling up your sleeves, and beautifying the local parks, you’re sure to find something that suits your altruistic interests.
Check-in on Your Neighbors
Checking on your neighbors is a meaningful act that requires little more than initiative. Focus on neighbors struggling, such as the elderly, those who live alone, or those recovering from surgery. Consider offering to cook a meal for them or simply sit and chat. The holidays can be lonely, and many people welcome company.
Shop Locally
While it’s certainly convenient to do your holiday shopping online with a few clicks of a button, shopping on Amazon doesn’t exactly infuse money into your community. Patronizing brick-and-mortar and mom-and-pop shops, on the other hand, creates jobs, fosters competition, and helps communities thrive. Consider shopping locally for holiday gifts, stocking stuffers, and Christmas dinner.
Donate Blood
Donating blood allows you to give yourself a gift. It takes around 30 minutes and is one of the quickest ways to contribute to your community.
While blood banks always need all blood types, O-positive and O-negative individuals are especially encouraged. O-negative is considered the “universal donor” and is used in emergencies when the recipient's blood type is unknown.
From giving your time to sharing your goods to mindfully choosing where you shop, there are many ways to give back to your community. Try one of the above and embrace the true meaning of the season.