No matter the season, taking the time to show someone kindness is a worthwhile endeavor. Research has found that performing acts of kindness for others is good for your well-being and will make you feel better than doing something for yourself. Evidently, giving back is a two-way street, as it is beneficial for both the receiver and the giver.
Acts of kindness can do wonders for your mental health! Being kind can help you relieve stress, combat depression, stay mentally active, and give you a sense of purpose. During the holidays, let’s bring some joy to families by giving back however we can. Whether it’s large or small, the impact of this gesture will be invaluable.
Volunteer.
Volunteering can have a positive impact on you, your family, and your community and does not have to take up a lot of time. Even 1 hour of volunteering can make a difference. With the holidays coming up, there are many opportunities to volunteer through organizations such as Volunteer Match and HealthStart.
Help a neighbor.
Giving back to your community can be as simple as helping out your neighbor. Offer to pick up groceries, mow lawns, or drive them to the doctor. Involving your children in helping others can be beneficial for both them and the person receiving the help, as it can help to teach them the importance of being kind and the positive effects it can have on someone’s well-being.
Give to your local charity.
Giving back is possible through donating to a local charity or organization of your choice or by participating in Giving Tuesday, a day dedicated to doing good. Donations are an important way to support the community and can be made at any time.
Participate in holiday food drives.
Food drives are an excellent way to get the whole family involved in helping feed those in need during the holidays. It is important to follow local food bank guidelines when donating and to remember to wash hands and sanitize before packing the donation box. Families can even volunteer to help serve or distribute donations.
Give blood.
Donating blood is a great way to give back to the community and can even save a life. However, there are certain restrictions on who can donate; be sure to check the Red Cross website for local guidelines and to find a blood drive in your area.
Promote environmentalism.
Giving back to people is wonderful; however, it is also important to give back to our planet. This holiday season, why not take the family to clean up the local park and pick up some litter? Additionally, reducing single-use items is a great way to help the Earth. This holiday season, you can help by reusing gift bags, sending digital cards, and properly recycling paper, plastic, and glass.
Run for charity.
Running for charity is a great way to combine physical fitness and philanthropy. By participating in a race to benefit a charity, donating money, or volunteering on race days, anyone can help raise money to give children a healthy future.
Donate unused items.
During the pandemic, people probably spent time decluttering their homes. By donating unused items such as clothes, household goods, and holiday decorations, you’ll be able to give help to those in need. Donations can be made to a local homeless shelter, Goodwill, or donation boxes. Children can also contribute by donating their toys and clothes they no longer use.
Support local businesses.
Shopping locally this holiday season is an excellent way to support small businesses that have been heavily impacted by COVID-19. Not only will you be helping small businesses thrive, but you’ll also be giving your loved ones a unique and memorable gift. You can also show your support by sharing local businesses on your social media or purchasing gift cards.