3 inspiring ways to give to others and give back
The holiday season is full of activity, from dinners to children’s events to shopping. Calendars are often jam-packed as we look to celebrate this special time of year with family and friends, and express our gratitude for one another.
Holiday spending is expected to increase by 4 to 5 percent this year as consumers actively seek gifts for their loved ones (and children in need). Here are other creative ways to share appreciation for one another while giving to our community:
- Prepare meals for a local homeless shelter. Grab a small group of friends (16 years or older) to spread the warmth of the holidays with a home-cooked meal and good company at homeless shelters in the region. Looking for a specific opportunity? Kick off the New Year with NVFS by preparing meals at our SERVE Family Shelter on Jan. 1. See details and other dates here.
- Organize a drive or fundraiser. Whatever the celebration — holiday, birthday, or just because it’s Thursday — you can organize a drive to solicit gifts for our neighbors on behalf of yourself or someone else. Check out our wish list of items to see what’s in greatest need. You can also start your own online fundraiser through Facebook. Just type in NVFS for your selected nonprofit.
- Make a donation in honor of a friend or relative. Supporting a cause near and dear to someone’s heart is a great way to show them that you care. You can either have the nonprofit notify the gift recipient, or provide them with your own note. You can even let them know what the gift may be used for. At NVFS, for example:
- $50 will provide a portable crib so a newborn has a safe place to sleep
- $100 will provide a family one night of emergency shelter to help them get back on their feet
- $250 will provide a child with six months of health coverage to receive the care and attention he or she needs
As the new year approaches, you may also be looking to donate items you no longer need. Thrift stores are great places to make donations and to volunteer, as stores will need help sorting and organizing the donations they receive.
From all of us at NVFS, we hope the holiday season is a merry one for you and yours.