The spirit of giving is a journey that often begins with a simple gesture. It’s a route on which we share a small piece of ourselves, and in turn, nurture our own body, mind and spirit. While any time is a great time to give, #GivingTuesday is an upcoming global acknowledgement of gratitude and giving. Celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, #GivingTuesday provides us with 24-hours dedicated to giving back. We have some helpful tips to gift your time to help others in need.
‘Tis the Season to Give
The holidays are about togetherness and love, but they can be challenging for those who might not have as much resources or family support. While not all of us have money to give, most of us have time. And donating your time can be just as impactful (or even more) as tangible gifs.
So, as giving season approaches, it’s a great time to begin thinking of how you can contribute to your community and the causes that you are passionate about. Take a step back from your own holiday responsibilities (shopping, cooking, cleaning and planning) and find ways to support those who need a little extra TLC this season.
If you aren’t able to give on Giving Tuesday itself, commit to giving back on a future date that fits your schedule.
Here are a few of the many ways you can give back on #GivingTuesday to help others feel whole:
- Create an encouragement wall at your church, school, office. Community members can write and draw positive statements to the community. You may be surprised how simple it may be to brighten someone’s day. A vibrant and encouraging wall may be just what someone needed.
- Participate in a community garden. Many communities have little or no access to fresh produce. You can donate what you have grown to a shelter or family in need.
- Organize a clothing or food drive. During the holidays school lunches are not available. Lead a drive among friends, family, or your church community.
- Give blood. Donating blood is the most precious gift that anyone can give to another person — the gift of life. The decision to donate blood could save a life.
Lifting Holiday Spirits
The holiday spirit — the notion that it is better to give than to receive — can be contagious. Generosity, love and human connection have a direct and measurable effect on our body. Giving will not only provide happiness to others, it will provide happiness to you as well. Giving back is part of our Seventh-day Adventist roots, and it's an act of our mission of Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ. By giving to others, we make a greater impact as a whole.
