Summer has come and gone, and the fall season is upon us. Thanksgiving is celebrated each year on the last Thursday of November, and it is a time that we come together as families and take inventory of what we have to be thankful for. During this time of reflection and excess, it is important to remember those who are less fortunate than us, and to give thanks by giving to those in need. By giving, you not only recognize your blessings, but you also foster an environment of change… not only in yourself but in those around you. Here are some ways of giving back this holiday season:
1.) Food Drives: This is one of the easiest ways to give back, and only requires you picking up a few canned goods during your regular run for groceries. Buy a few extra canned goods and drop them off at a collection center, and they will distribute the food to families in need. Though not thought of, hunger is prevalent in America and 12 million children experience hunger. This number has grown 10% in the past decade. By giving to food drives you can help eliminate hunger.
2.) Soup Kitchens: Donating your time to soup kitchens is much more intensive, but also much more rewarding than simply dropping cans off at a collection center. Many churches and organizations have centers that distribute hot food to those in need, and are always in need of volunteers to help. Volunteering for such activities not only helps the organizations and people involved, it also gives the volunteer a new perspective on what they have to be thankful for.
3.) Charitable Organizations: Another great way to help give back to the community is to find a charitable organization that speaks to you, and to make a charitable contribution. It’s easy to forget that charities can only exist with donations from people like you and me, and even a small donation can make a difference. Save change here and there, and then donate it to the charity of your choice… remember, every little bit helps.
There are so many more little things we can do to give back to our community. Americans have so much to be thankful for, and it is easy to forget that there are people in our country that need help just to get food on the table for their family. This holiday season why don’t we give thanks by giving back?