Content provided by the GBS Health Wellness Team
During November many of us enjoy spending time with family, holiday shopping, and eating a lot of delicious food. This holiday season may look different from others due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and finances may also be tight. Consider starting a new tradition with your family during November by volunteering and providing non-financial gifts to those who are less fortunate.
Here are some ideas to help get started:
Offer Time – Holidays can be both joyful and stressful, and we may struggle to remember the reason we are celebrating. This is a great time to lend a hand to family and friends. Offer to pick up groceries, help with errands, or babysit. These are great ways to give someone back a few minutes of time during the day.
Donate – Organize your closets and set aside clothes that no longer fit or are no longer wanted. Gently used books, toys, or other household items are also great to donate to a shelter or local collection box. Other ways to donate this month could include participating in a blood drive, donating items to your local food bank, or donating cat and dog food to your local animal shelter.
Volunteer – Find ways to volunteer within the community and set a goal of putting aside time each week to do so. Look for opportunities in areas you have an interest in serving, such as the school, library, food bank, or animal shelter.
Local Run – Grab a friend or family member and head out for a local walk/run on (or before) Thanksgiving Day. If possible, find a race where proceeds go to a charitable cause.
Pay it Forward – Consider picking up the tab for someone’s coffee, dinner, groceries, or fuel. Smile at others during the day and give compliments. Leave gratitude notes, connect with a friend or family member who you haven’t spoken with for a while, or send a note to someone special. These are great ways to brighten someone’s day and start a trend for others to follow.
Food – Local food banks are generally in need of extra food during this month. Check with the food bank on items that may be needed or consider inviting a family member or friend over for dinner.
Inexpensive Holiday Gift Ideas – Get creative with gift giving this year. Think sentimental value versus monetary value, and have fun putting extra thought and time into choosing gifts. Some ideas may be a book exchange, food ingredients in a jar, personal house cleaning, or house/pet sitting.
Thanksgiving – November 26, 2020
This is a day full of tradition when we enjoy bringing friends and family together to enjoy a delicious meal. Consider starting a new tradition to show gratitude by spending time volunteering or finding unique ways that fit within your budget to give to those less fortunate.
