The Joy of Giving Back
Spread joy this holiday season by giving back to your community and those in need! While the holidays are a great time to give gifts and spend time with family, it’s also a perfect time to reflect on what we’re thankful for and pay it forward. As you plan your holiday season, here are some easy yet impactful ways to give back:
DONATE GENTLY USED TOYS AND CLOTHES
This one is truly a win-win. What better way to prep for the chaos of the holidays by cleaning out your closet? Purge those items you no longer need or have outgrown. Expecting a visit from Santa Claus? Gather up those gently used toys that your kids have outgrown over the last year and donate them to your local charity or shelter.
PARTICIPATE IN YOUR LOCAL TOY DRIVE
Help bring joy to children and families in need this season by donating books, stuffed animals, or other toys. You can wrap and deliver gifts to a local non-profit to help families within your community or support Toys for Tots toy drive—find your local campaign here. Cupcake Vineyards are proudly sponsoring Toys for Tots this holiday season with a $25,000 donation!
GET CREATIVE
Don’t be afraid to branch out—get creative by making no-sew blankets or handmade holiday cards for seniors in assisted living facilities, veterans, or military families. Assembling care packages as a family makes for a generous and joyful tradition! Gather some school supplies, cozy socks and gloves, toiletries, small toys, and your favorite snacks to delight a local foster family. You can also consider donating a care package to soldiers through Operation Gratitude.
SHARE WITH YOUR NEIGHBOR
Bake and decorate some Christmas cookies to share with your neighbors to spread some joy and bring a smile to their face. Have a neighbor who doesn’t have family nearby? Consider inviting them for a hearty holiday meal or drop off a portion for them to enjoy at home.
VOLUNTEER
Soup kitchens and homeless shelters are often overbooked with volunteers looking to help serve dinner during the holidays, but there are other ways to volunteer! Lean into your natural talents:
- If you’re good at design, you could help develop marketing materials for a local charity campaign.
- If you work with your hands, a local senior center may need your help with repairs.
- If you’re a finance wiz, local shelters could use your help preparing financial statements before year end.
Follow us on social and let us know how you and your family CHOOSE JOY this holiday season!
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