Great Ways to Give Back this Holiday Season
"Giving back" is a really important part of my life. Along the way, I've volunteered at places where I've seen so very little be turned into so very much, and I've learned that even though I'm not incredibly wealthy, I can make an impact. I believe everyone else can, too.
With the holiday season in full swing, I've already taken action to help give 
back. The Socal Transplants group that I'm a part of raised $500 last month for the Orange County Rescue Mission, and I'm running a fundraiser in December to collect funds & gift cards to make less fortunate children's wishes come true. It's not all about money though. Sometimes, giving back is simply sacrificing some time. Other times, it's simply parting with items you no longer have need of. Around the holidays, "one man's trash is another's treasure" rings very true. Interested in giving back? Here are some very easy ways to do so (none of which require writing a check).
Take inventory of your home
Clothing items are one of the most popular holiday gifts. While you may look forward to some new digs, go through your wardrobe to find items that you don't wear or haven't used in a while. My rule is, if I can't remember wearing or using something in the previous 12 months, I give it away. Coats and sweaters make a huge difference this time of year, but to someone that has nothing, anything that's in good shape is a blessing.
It doesn't have to stop with clothes, though. Have old sheets or towels that you no longer use? Your local animal shelter would likely be thrilled to have them as additional pet bedding. Old appliances or children's toys? Your local Salvation Army can help re-gift them to someone that would be very appreciative. Old books? Donate them to your local library, where they'll be put to good use.
Shop Online & Smile
If you do a lot of online shopping, use smile.amazon.com. The site is exactly the same as Amazon.com, with the only difference being using the smile url allows you to choose a charity or cause (Amazon has a ton of them to choose from...I donate to Chive Charities), and a percentage of every purchase will be donated to your chosen charity. It may not seem like much, but if every Amazon purchase went through the 'smile' url, it would be an awful lot of money.
Spend some time
There are a lot of organizations that need your time, in some instances even more than your money. There is always the opportunity to help prepare or serve a meal for the less fortunate. The holidays present more opportunities to spend your time giving back than the rest of the year - we have a gift wrapping 'party' at Olive Crest, and volunteers are needed to chaperone and assist with a resident party later in the month. Delivering gifts, wrapping presents, manning a collection station, or stopping by your local animal shelter to help walk dogs (many regular volunteers travel for the holidays so demand is greater this time of year) -- there are many chances to help your local community by giving some time.
Spread the word
Share opportunities with those you know - many people are more than willing to help where they can, but may not be aware of how simple it can be to give back. Others may think they can't make a big difference as an individual, but all of us can, regardless of how many 0's our bank account has at the end.
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