Taking the time to give back to the world is one of the most rewarding experiences on the planet. And no matter how you choose to do it, amping it up at Christmas time is something that I will always encourage.
Last year, I talked about my favourite ways to give back and got an overwhelmingly positive response. So this year, I decided to bring it back.
However, I do recognise that Christmas is one of the most financially draining times of the year, so not having the budget to make huge charitable donations can make you feel a little bit defeated.
But have no fear!
If there’s a will, there’s a way (and I’m about to suggest three of them).
1. Donate Small Amounts Often
If you don’t have a lot of time on your hands but still want to make a difference, donating very small amounts on a regular basis is a pretty simple solution.
Most obviously, setting up a small monthly donation to a charity or community organisation can definitely lessen the financial burden and still make a huge difference. Although, if you’re not comfortable doing this, there are still plenty of other ways you can donate.
You’ve probably noticed the large collection bins or ‘giving trees’ in your local supermarkets and shopping centres; so why not start there?
Many supermarkets collect food items for families who are doing it tough, so why not pick up some canned vegetables and throw them in each time you food shop? This costs you less than the price of a coffee, but it makes a huge difference for those in need.
Better still, some supermarkets also accept donations of pet food for local animal shelters- so if you’re an animal lover, this is a great way to get involved for very little coin.
2. Volunteer Your Time
If you don’t have room in your budget for monetary donations, why not donate your time?
There are countless ways of getting involved in your local communities; simply look around for an organisation that sparks your interest.
Think:
- Animal Shelters
- Homeless Shelters
- Mentoring Programs
- Health Organisations
- Conservation Groups
- Local Museums
- Disaster Relief Organisations
The list is honestly endless, and I can guarantee that any volunteer experience will be extremely rewarding.
3. Random Acts Of Kindness
As much as targeting the big issues is super important, spreading kindness can be equally life-changing for people all over the planet.
If you’ve ever partaken in a random act of kindness, you’ll know how magical the experience is.
Whether you give up your seat on the bus for someone or simply smile at people on the street, kindness is truly the most powerful tool we have access too.
The concept of ‘kindness cards’ has really grown in popularity over the last year, and I personally love the idea of them.
You can either:
- Write down a stack of general compliments/kind words and leave them in random places for people to find (e.g. in libraries, cafes, bus stops etc.)
- Carry a small stack of cards with you, and write a note of appreciation to leave for your waiter, barista, pastor, co-workers, hospital staff, taxi driver, or anyone who needs a little confidence boost.
Premade kindness cards are available in many places (I particularly like the Harper + Willow ’25 Days of Kindness Cards’), but you can just as easily make them yourself for a personal touch.
No matter what you choose to partake in this Christmas, feel happy knowing that you have the potential to make a huge difference in someone’s life.
Because that, my friend, is the greatest Christmas gift of all.
Until Monday, 😉
