The holiday season is a time for giving, and there are many ways to spread generosity this year — both big and small.
To help you get started, the GivePulse team has put together a list of 10 affordable ways to get involved with your community this holiday season.
1. Volunteer Your Time
Giving back during the holidays is about more than just donating money — it's about giving your time. One of the best ways to do that is by volunteering.
You can help at a local soup kitchen or food drive, donate your time at a toy drive or even visit a nursing home to spread some holiday cheer. Use GivePulse to find volunteering opportunities near you!
2. Donate Toys or Games
For many children, the holidays are a time of excitement and anticipation. But for some, it's a reminder of what they don't have. You can help change that by donating new toys or games to a toy drive in your community.
3. Give Warmth This Winter
Warm winter apparel is in high demand over the holiday season. You can help by donating new or gently used coats, hats, gloves and scarves to a local coat drive. If you have extra blankets or other good-quality home goods, you can donate them to a homeless shelter.
4. Donate Non-perishable Foods
Food banks see an influx of donations during the holidays but also an increase in demand. You can help by donating non-perishable food items to a local food bank or food pantry. Items like canned goods, rice, pasta and cereal are always needed.
5. Give Blood
If you're healthy and eligible, consider giving blood this holiday season. It's a quick and easy way to help save lives. Many blood drives are happening in communities across the country, so there's sure to be one near you.
6. Make a Charitable Donation
Charitable giving is a great way to show your support for causes that are important to you, and it doesn't have to break the bank. Every dollar counts! Looking for a place to start? Consider donating to an organization that helps those in need during the holiday season. Use GivePulse to begin your search!
7. Donate Used Books
Do you have gently used books lying around? Donate this holiday season by giving them to a local library, hospital or senior center. Books can bring joy to people of all ages, and they're always appreciated.
8. Adopt a Family
There are many families in need during the holidays. You can help by adopting a family through a local church, school or community center. This typically involves buying gifts for the children, as well as food and other essentials for the family.
9. Pay It Forward
One of the best ways to spread holiday cheer is by paying it forward. Whether you buy someone's coffee, hold the door open or smile at a stranger, your kindness will make someone's day.
10. Organize a Clothing or Toy Drive
The season of giving is also a great time to get others involved. If you're looking for a way to do that, consider organizing a clothing or toy drive in your community. This is a great way to engage your friends, family and neighbors in giving back.
How GivePulse Can Help You Give Back
Giving doesn't have to mean making a huge donation or attending an expensive fundraiser. Whether you spare an hour a week or make a small monthly contribution to a local organization, your gift makes a difference.
At GivePulse, we believe everyone can make an impact in their community. That's why we've created a platform that allows volunteers and donors to find opportunities in their area.
Ready to make an impact this holiday season? Use GivePulse to search for ways to give back near you.
About GivePulse
GivePulse's mission is to enable everyone in the world to participate and engage in lifting their community to new heights. We do so by providing a platform to list, find, organize and measure the impact of service-learning, community engagement, philanthropy, corporate social responsibility and volunteerism.
Founded in 2012 in Austin, Texas, GivePulse works with 650,000+ groups, including colleges and universities, nonprofits, businesses, K-12/school districts and cities and municipalities. Together, we connect millions of people in an effort to create positive social change.
Start making a difference today by visiting www.givepulse.com.