The Giving Season
Quick update: Hi lovelies and beau’s, the past couple weeks have been a bit hectic as there has been some pretty big changes in my life. In order to adjust to those changes, I decided to take some time off from posting. However, I’m ready to get back into the swing of things. Before I introduce y’all to the latest series, I’m thankful for the outpouring of love and support. Y’all are the best and most beautiful (inside and out!). Most of all, I appreciate each fellow reader. Without y’all, I wouldn’t get to do what I love. So, thank you!
I’m back and I’m ready to get this party started. Today’s post is the first of three for the “Remember November” Series where I’ll be sharing stories, delicious dishes, and speaking from the heart. In order to stay up-to-date, check out my Instagram account @inspire.those.who.inspire.you or fill out a form below to be put on my emailing list. Are you ready?
A special time of the year is upon us. With multiple holidays around the corner, there is no better time than now to get into the holiday spirit. Everywhere you go, there is a glimpse of holiday cheer from light displays to classic tunes to seasonal treats to special events. This season is about returning the favor and giving back to someone in need. After all, the holiday season is oftentimes when we reflect, express appreciation, and share in the excitement.
There are a multitude of ways to get started. If you’re unsure of where to begin, here are some suggestions:
Check your local Facebook page, group pages that you are involved in, or local groups that you are a part of for places that are in need of volunteers or are in need of particular items.
Reach out to family and friends for any suggestions.
Go to a church in your area to find out about local events.
If you have a specific cause in mind, search online and see if there are any available opportunities around your area.
As far as specific opportunities, I recommended the following:
Volunteer your time at a food bank, food pantry, or soup kitchen. Not only will you be busy cooking up a storm or packing food for those in need, you will also be making the world a better place. Depending on the location and type of volunteer experience, it can be a couple hours to half a day type of deal. In regard to my own experience, I often enjoyed taking time out of my busy schedule to spend time within the local community. Oftentimes, I reflect on how those days changed my life. It changed my outlook, made me appreciative of all the blessings in my life, and it gave me a sense of purpose. I have also had the chance to connect with so many amazing people. Some who challenged me in ways I never thought possible and others who inspired me day in and day out. Go out and volunteer today!
Another great suggestion this time of year is to Adopt A Family or Angel Tree Recipient. These can often be found at big retailers, the Salvation Army, or local businesses around town. For either option, you will pick out gifts that a family/recipient is requesting. In the past, when I’ve picked up an Angel Tree tag, it’ll usually suggest jacket for 11 year old with measurements or recommendations on size. Or Barbie girl doll. For the most part, it’ll be up to you as to where to buy the item(s) and which option to choose for their gift suggestion. Once the items are bought, usually they are taken back to the original business that had the Angel Tree or Adopt A Family unless stated otherwise. Also, the deadline is usually sometime near Christmas. So, you have more time to find the best gift!
Now if life keeps you busy and you’re not able to volunteer some time or money is short, another fantastic way to make a difference during the holidays is through donations. During this time of year, there are toy drives, clothes drives, or food drives amongst others. For example, the animal shelter near me is seeking pet food to help with elderly residents and their pets. Back in college, when I was involved in organizations we held a Jean Drive to help houseless youth.
The next suggestion to help out during the holidays is to offer to cook a meal, bake a dessert, or to buy food, no matter the occasion. You could cook a meal for an elderly neighbor, local first responders, or for a group you’re a part of. You could also suggest baking a dessert for holiday dinner or for a get together with friends. Buying food/treats is also appreciated. With more awareness surrounding food allergies, it can be easier to read the ingredients of store bought food.
And lastly, a monetary donation. Although donating a few dollars may feel as though it doesn’t benefit anyone, it can go a long way. I believe it’s the thought that counts. I used to think I had to spend so much money on those closest to me but in the past couple years, family members reminded me that it’s not about the cost, it’s about the thought that matters. And they’re right. It one of the reasons I cherish every gift I receive and why I value spending time with people. To me it’s not about the monetary value rather it’s about the time spent with family and friends.
At a later date, I will share my other volunteer experiences as I participated a lot during my school years. If you have a favorite place to volunteer at or a cause close to your heart that you donate too, comment down below, I’d love to hear about your experience. In the meantime, love thy neighbor.
As a signature of this blog, I like to end each post with a suggestion to “Pass on kindness”. There is no such time as the present to “Inspire Those Who Inspire You”. Acts of kindness, no matter how big or small, can have a direct, positive impact on someone else. Go out there today and change someone’s life for the better.
It’s not about how much we give, but how much love is put into giving
-Mother Theresa-
***These are my personal opinions and may not be those of my employer
