The holidays! Oh what to do first --
Shopping?-- There are hundreds of needy people. Those who have fled domestic violence. Those who have been victims of Hurricane Katrina or the wild fires of California. There are those who have lost a treasured family member...a Mom, a Dad. Let';s do some shopping on the behalf of those who need a Christmas. There is not enough space to list each organization accepting gifts for the broken down. However, I have included a few here. Feel free to utilize these, or create your own. When my children were younger, as an example, we hosted a birthday party for Jesus each Christmas. They would invite children over...we usually had about 20 kids come, and they were asked to bring gifts. The gifts were to be unwrapped and we would then take them to a worthy charity to distribute. During the birthday party, we decorated cupcakes or cookies, sang "Happy Birthday" to Jesus, and even blew out the candles. It was a tradition which they still treasure today and so do I! But without further ado, the following organizations are throughout the country and will accept donations for those in need of hope for the holidays: Starbucks and The Dougy Center. Also, there is the Secret Santa where you can input your zip code and a list of local collection sites will come up on the computer for you! Additionally, I have included a few more local organizations, such as the Raphael House in Portland and the KGW News Great Toy Drive. Have fun shopping! :)
Hosting Dinner Parties? -- There are many, many places that we can volunteer to host parties for those less fortunate than we are. I have included here the websites for a few of those places locally. You can do a Google search, too, for other locations if you would like to. The Goose Hollow Family Shelteris in need of hosts for a sundry of things, as is My Father's Heart. Of course there is the more traditional Union Gospel Missionas well. Wherever you choose to host this get together, do so with a smile on your face. It just may be the only smile your guests have had all week. Make it count! :)
Sending Christmas Cards? -- One of our own, Armando Rodriguez, has sent out a link to send free Christmas cardsto our soldiers overseas. What a tremendous way to celebrate Christmas! We are able to thank our friends and family of fellow Americans by sending them cards. It is free, easy, and only takes a moment to do. yet is will bring a smile to the face of those who are away from their blood family and true friends. When we have the ability and power to encourage others', shouldn't we do so?? How many do you think you can get done??
Visiting Family? -- The children's hospitals are a great place to start. I recommend phoning your local unit to inquire visiting hours and what might make a child's day a little bit brighter. In Portland, Emanuel Children's Hospital is a fantastic place to see these little faces. Also, retirement centers. You can go caroling, bring candy canes for the residents, or simply sit and talk with them. Meals on Wheels is another terrific organization which allows you the chance to talk with the lonely. They may not be blood relatives. They may be strangers. However, they are our neighbors, our species, and in a greater sense, our family. Embrace them. Show them that you believe in them and that you care about them. Encourage them with your presence and your kindness. You will find yourself just as happy, if not happier, than they are!
Giving? -- Charities are often overlooked at this time of year. Whatever your passion is, donate to a group you care a lot about. Personally, my husband is Type 1 Diabetic, so I enjoy giving to that cause. My Dad died of cancer, so supporting the American Cancer Society seems logical. There are, of course, many others, so go with what compels you. Just find a way to give...with a heart of gold!
So, the question of where to start should give you pause...but only for a moment. I hope that you will choose at least one way, but I can guarantee you this; the more you give, the more you will receive this holiday season. Have fun as you get out and give to your community. I am hoping to hear all aboiut it from you. To that end, I will be watching, reading, and writing!!! Happy Holidays!!
Comments(4)