23 Swindon Way
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Canada
R3P 0W2

Give Back This Season

During this holiday season, many families are cutting back. Some are simply watching their pennies. Many more are going completely without.

In this time of need, opportunity is born. Some families are choosing to reclaim the spirit of giving during the holidays. They are realigning their focus and getting back to the bare bones of the season. They are choosing to donate their time, money and resources, helping those who are struggling and, in turn, teaching and inspiring their own children.

Research has proven that the greatest philanthropists in our society witnessed the spirit of giving in their own childhood homes. Early on, it became a part of their thinking. It became part of their lifestyle. It became a part of who they are. It seems, to become a more charitable society, we must first begin with our children.

There are many non-profits and community resources that are seeing an increase in need in recent months. Their burden is great. The need is there. Some ask of your time. Some ask for your donations. Some ask for dollars. And, every penny counts.

How can a family make the first step?

• Find a charity that appeals to your family. Follow your child's passion. Whether it is animals, the environment, or struggling families, there is a local non-profit that is a perfect match for your family.
  
  
• Decide if you would like to donate time, money and/or resources
  
  
• Commit. Make this a family project. Better yet, make it a project that lasts all year.
  
  
• Enjoy it. Make it fun. Let this be a warm childhood memory for your children; a time of togetherness and bonding.Involve your children. Give your kids the opportunity to be a part of a charitable cause. Allow them to be a part of a solution. Let them experience the heartwarming feeling of a good deed done.
  
  
• Adopt a family thru the Salvation Army.
  
  
• Prepare a gift basket for a needy family.
  
  
• Stuff stockings for homeless shelters.
  
  
• Spread the cheer. Offer to decorate a shelter for the holidays.
  
  
• Volunteer to groom and play with homeless animals at The Humane Society.
  
  
• Make cookies and cards for pregnant teens.
  
  
• Donate diapers to a local Diaper Bank or homeless shelter.
  
  
• *Donate clothes and food. Bring it to the Salvation Army as a family.
  
  
• Adopt a park or trail. Commit to keeping it clean and maintained for the year.
  
  
• As a family, serve meals at a soup kitchen.
  
  
• Encourage your school or office to hold a food drive or winter clothing drive.

Help put the spirit of giving back into this holiday season. Not only will our community benefit, but our children will be given a "hands on" lifelong lesson in giving. This season, let's give them that.

Bio
Michele Boom is a former elementary school teacher who turned in her chalkboard to stay at home with her young daughters. She is currently the President of her local MOMS Club and spends much of her time penning parenting articles for regional parenting magazines. She is also the mamma behind the popular Mommy blog, Mammatalk.