Giving Back this Christmas Season

Have you seen the new red and white Coca-Cola cans? The white cans are still in my area, but I’m hoping to grab one of the limited edition red and white cans this week.

This month we’re talking about giving back. Just as Coca-Cola is giving back by supporting the WWF,  you can give back in your local community.

I know times are tough for many people, but not every gift requires a monetary investment. Here are a few ideas of ways you can give back in your local area.

The Gift of Time

Do you have a neighbor that could use help trimming branches or shoveling snow this winter? Do you live by a single mom who could use some free babysitting? Do you have an elderly neighbor who would love to be invited over for tea?

The gift of time is free for us to give and is usually a priceless gift for the recipient.

The Gift of Food

A warm plate of cookies, a freshly baked loaf of bread, even a meal for the freezer is a wonderful way to give back to someone you know or don’t know.

One year after our annual cookie frosting party we took most of the cookies to the local fire station. The kids sang Christmas carols and presented the staff with plates of decorated cookies.

The Gift of Fun

Surprise someone you know with a fun outing. It could be a trip to the mall, the movies, or even just a walk to the park. Anything different from the norm will be fun for someone who isn’t expecting it.

The Gift of Community

Do you know your neighbors? I mean really know your neighbors? Organize a neighborhood gathering, pot luck dinner or garage sale. It’s a great way to get to know the people who live right in your own back yard.

I met some of my closest friends because we lived on the same street.

You can donate to Arctic Home through logging on to www.arctichome.com, texting package codes to 357357 to make a $1 donation to WWF or donating points through MCR.com.

Remember it is always better to give than to receive. How are you giving back this Christmas season?