Spreading the Holiday Spirit: Volunteer, Donate and Appreciate

Giving has been a part of the holiday spirit since before Christmas was even celebrated. Winter has become a time for charity, respect, and mercy. These days many people get caught up in selecting the perfect gifts for each of your loved ones, deciding what Santa will bring your children, and hanging your Christmas lights. They may forget to give to others-or forget how. The best way to celebrate Christmas is not by watching Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer, but by spreading around the holiday spirit together as a family.

Volunteer Together

If your children are old enough, get them involved. Take them to the nearest shelter, and assist in any way you can as a family. Help may be needed cleaning, decorating, and cooking or preparing food. This is also a good time of year to start volunteering at the SPCA. They are always in need of volunteers to help feed, wash, and clean up after their animals. You don't have to help an organization, though. Help a friend in need by assisting her with childcare or housework. Help a neighbor hang his lights or rake his leaves. Clean up your neighborhood or local park together by picking up trash.

Everybody Donate

Give whatever you can. Have everyone take a bag of clothing they have outgrown in the year, or no longer wear much, to donate to Goodwill, the Salvation Army, or some other thrift store. Select a few items that you may still want but could do without which you think could bring happiness to another. Monetary donations are helpful as well; perhaps everyone could give 10% of their Christmas money to a charity of their choice.

Christmas Caroling

This is a classic Christmas activity that never gets old. Pick a few of your family's favorite songs to learn and learn them. Have a rehearsal once a week all December, and then pick a certain night to go caroling each year. Invite friends and neighbors to join in. This will teach your children about sharing the holiday spirit, and they will have fun doing it. You can spice it up by adding choreography or even learning the sign language. You'll brighten everyone's evening and maybe get some freebies, like candy canes, apple cider, or at the very least applause!