It truly is the most wonderful time of the year. While the holiday season is a time to celebrate and cherish one another, there are endless opportunities to give back to your local community and help those in need. Whether it be ringing bells, collecting change, or donating gifts there are numerous ways to give back, while still enjoying the holiday spirit.

While many believe that the “Christmas spirit” is about giving and receiving gifts, the true spirit lies within the kindness and love we share during the holidays. Although it is great to receive exactly what you asked for on Christmas morning, it’s an even more rewarding feeling to give back to those who aren’t as fortunate. As you make your Christmas list this year, it’s important to remember those who are in need of your generosity.

Sponsor a family in Need

Supporting a family in need gives sponsors the opportunity to donate food and gifts, in order to help families who may not have the income. Through organizations like http://www.family-to-family.org/ you are able to donate and help give a family a Christmas to remember.

Help the Homeless

Unfortunately, it is during this cold time of the year that the homeless struggle the most. Whether it be volunteering to serve food, or handing out blankets, a little act of kindness can make a huge difference in helping the homeless population. This holiday season, volunteer at your local emergency food organization and take a small part in helping those in need.

The Salvation Army

Through The Salvation Army, there are numerous ways to give back and help those in need. The proceeds made provide assistance to youth services, rehabilitation, disaster relief, and more. Many families cannot afford to celebrate during the Holidays, through The Salvation Army you can donate gifts and money to help give a family a wonderful Christmas.

Toys for Tots

Toys for Tots mission is to provide books, toys and other gifts to less fortunate children. Through this organization you are able to donate gifts, as well as sponsor a child, to help children and families celebrate the joy of Christmas. Find out how to get involved and where your local drop off at http://www.toysfortots.org/.

Mary’s Place

Located in Seattle, Mary’s Place provides homeless women, children, and families resources to help find housing and employment. Also providing night shelters, meals and other resources to better the lives of those the less fortunate. Find out how to help at http://www.marysplaceseattle.org/

Seattle Children’s Hospital

Seattle Children’s Hospital is well-known for their excellent medical care and service to the community. However, many children spend their holiday season in a hospital, unable to fully enjoy the Christmas spirit. Through Holiday gift drives, volunteer openings and much more, Seattle Children’s works to make the Holiday season just as joyful and memorable for their patients. Check out how to help on their website at http://www.seattlechildrens.org/

Hopelink

Each year Hopelink is dedicated to helping low-income families, disabled citizens and seniors. Easy ways to help give back through Hopelink is to fund a gift package or set up a giving tree. Hopelink also operates various food banks and provides multiple opportunities for volunteers to help give back this season.

Although these are but a few ways to help give back this Holiday season, the first step to give a less fortunate family a great Christmas starts with you.