This year, particularly, we have a yearning desire to help and give as much as we can in whatever way possible to those in need. Though we may not be well off, we still have a lot to offer in the form of contributing goods, friendship, skills, and time. 

Those of you who can give and have a little extra financial backing, by all means, donate to your favorite charitable international or community-based organization or friends and loved ones who have fallen on hard times. 

There are so many philanthropic groups to choose from, domestic and international, that deal with assisting veterans, children, domestic animals and wildlife, illnesses, and refugees of political unrest, all of whom are in dire straights. 

Altruism

Give with an open heart and open mind. Give, but expect nothing in return. You don't have to travel the world over to know someone who could use a hand, an extra brain, or an ear. Read on to discover ways to reach out and improve someone’s life even it’s for a moment. 

We're all decent people. We've donated our older clothes that may or may not fit, outdated furniture from the 80s, and our children's "gently" used toys. 

Now is the time to step up our game and be that support system your brother or sister or neighbor or hairstylist needs. Ask around to see what can you do for someone else.

1) Plumber, electrician, or mechanic? Check on your neighbor, it's possible their home or car could use a few repairs. 

2) Are you linguistically gifted? Maybe, someone you know recently lost their job, like millions of others. Provide your knowledge on resume building to help them be more successful in their hunt for a new position.

3) Know someone who isn't in the best health? Mow their lawn a few times, shovel snow, or take their trash to the curb on trash night. All of these little things add up for someone and can alleviate stress.

4) Older adults love their pets but may not be mobile enough to take them on walks. Get your exercise on by taking Max or Bernard out for a much-needed walk. Your loved one will thank you, and Max and Bernard will give you a big lick!

5) You have a sister with three kids and her husband was just laid off. They now have to tighten the budget and pay for only the most basic bills. The children’s music lessons are the first to go. You just happen to be in a band and can play several instruments! Amazing! Free music lessons until the finances are in better shape will be the gift of a lifetime. 

Volunteer and Offer an Ear

During the best of times, the holidays can be rough on people. Suppose you happen to know someone in a fragile mental state. Be kind and be a friend. Invite them for a socially distanced walk or chat on the phone and just listen or be silent, whatever they prefer. Just be there. 

Volunteering can be a life-changing experience for many reasons; the main one is it can change your perspective on what is and is not essential.  Although we are living through a pandemic, there are still safe ways to volunteer. 

1) Make food or donate food to the homeless. Talk to your local mission and ask if you can drop off homemade food or donate your time to make food at the shelter.

2) Deliver food to the sick and infirm. Donate your time to deliver food to people who are bed-bound or too ill to leave their homes. Several organizations offer this service. Do your research to see which is the best for you. 

3) A tremendous amount of loving pets need our help. Consider opening your home to foster an animal until they find their forever home. There are plenty of rescues who find abused or neglected animals and nurse them back to health. Be a part of a little furball's journey towards finding love.

4) It's winter in these parts, and it's cold! Innumerable people go without proper shelter and heating and get sick or die. They need at the least warm clothing. Here's where those useful skills come into play. Knit up some sweaters and distribute them to the individuals who need them in your community. Even if just a few people receive them, you've made a difference. 

No act of generosity is ever too big or too small. Believe us when we say every ounce of care shown means something. For the world to truly thrive, everyone should have the opportunity to feel love and to feel safe. 

From the bottom of our hearts, we send you all vibes of happiness, love, and great hopes for the future this holiday season.