9 Ways to Share the Spirit of the Season—Starting From Home
The holiday season is upon us, and many of us have already begun to celebrate. From trimming trees to lighting candles, it’s the time of year to fill your homes (and hearts) with holiday joy.
But there’s no need to stop at your front door. Let the spirit of the season radiate outward from your house into your community. Some homeowners hang outdoor lights and decorations to help make the neighborhood “merry and bright.” But that’s not the only way to share the magic of the holidays with others.
Not sure where to start? Check out these 9 inspirational ideas for spreading cheer far and near!
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME
You probably don’t have to look far to find someone who could benefit from a gift or kind gesture this time of year. Try one (or all) of these ideas for sharing the season with those closest to home.
1. Host a Holiday Party
Invite your neighbors over for a potluck dinner or cookie exchange. And if you have a neighbor who you’ve been at odds with in the past, consider extending them an invitation, as well.
2. Help a Neighbor in Need
Next time you head out to rake your leaves, take care of an elderly neighbor’s, as well. Or drop off dinner for a friend recovering from surgery.
3. Treat Your Mail and Package Carriers
Extend comfort and joy from your own front porch during your postal and package carriers’ busiest time of year. Leave a goody and note of gratitude in your mailbox or a basket of water and snacks by your front door.
DON’T STOP AT YOUR STREET … BRING HOLIDAY CHEER TO EVERYONE YOU MEET
Surprise and delight those you encounter with a small act of kindness or a generous gesture. 'Tis the season of giving, but the reaction you get in return may be the best gift of all!
4. Overtip
Everyone could use a little extra cash around the holidays, especially waiters, Uber drivers, hairdressers, and other service providers. If you can afford it, share a bit of your abundance with others.
5. Thank Those Who Don’t Get a Holiday
Bring breakfast or pass out coffee shop gift cards to people such as emergency workers, hospital staff, airline employees, and toll booth attendants who are working to make your holiday safe and bright.
6. Fill Stockings for the Homeless
Pick up some inexpensive Christmas stockings from a craft store and fill them with items such as bottled water, granola bars, beef jerky, small toiletries, and warm socks or gloves. Hand them out at a shelter or keep a stash in your car so you can offer one when you encounter someone in need.
SEND JOY TO THE WORLD BY BECOMING A SECRET SANTA
Reach beyond your sphere by sending some holiday magic out into the community. Surprise a stranger with an anonymous gift that’s sure to make their holiday shine.
7. Offer Warmth on a Cold Day
As temperatures drop, some members of our community will be left out in the cold. Donate your gently used coat to a collection site or tie a scarf around a tree and attach a sign that says: “I am not lost. If you need this to stay warm, please take it!”
8. Pay Off a Stranger’s Layaway
Ask the layaway attendant to search for accounts with balances that fit within your budget.
9. Donate Toys to a Tot
One of the most popular ways to give back during the holidays is to participate in a toy drive. Involve your kids in the process so they can experience the joy of giving to those less fortunate, too.
One last easy way to support the community this year? Shop local!
From locally-owned stores to service providers, please consider spending your holiday dollars here at home. We have an extensive network of local businesses and would love to recommend some of our favorites. Give us a call, and let us know how we can help!
