Christmas..The Spirit of Giving...The Ultimate Gifts

When a loved one was in a nursing home for several months after a severe stroke I would make the rounds every time I visited. At first glance it is easy to read despair, isolation, fear and loneliness into the eyes of the older people sitting at tables or in their wheelchair. But then something happened that was amazing. I took our little dog one day and every single person, no matter their condition mentally or physically, lit up and wanted to have their moment with him. From there I learned their names and some of the stories behind truly amazing people. You don't have to have a pet, but a kind word, a short conversation, remembering their name can be a wonderful expression of compassion. Volunteers are needed to help residents get to therapy and meals, participate in activities, the list is endless. Give it a try and you will keep going back.

When my son was young we used to gather his buddies for soccer games, hockey, ski trips, camping and biking and more. At the time it did not seem like an act of volunteering since often parents would rotate in these activities but it is in the purest form. Volunteer opportunities with children are limitless and can come from anywhere...schools, church, Boys and Girls Clubs, the neighborhood...you name it. With so much emphasis on childhood obesity these days you can create your own unique responses to encourage kids of all ages to participate in healthy, safe activities that will shape their future.

As long as I can remember there have been four-legged family members in our household. My dad would find one abandoned along the highway and viola!...we'd have a new addition. It must be genetic because I have the same affliction and at no time in my life can I ever recall "buying" a pet. Nonetheless, they have been constant companions and for many people, the way they choose to give back. Simple as adopting a stray, to helping out at an injured raptor facility. Maybe you are effective at fundraising and prefer to help endangered species or engage in habitat protection or acquisition. Christmas is not the only time to contribute but it's a great time to start. Make a donation to your worthwhile cause this season.

Who really believed that the "Super Committee" would come up with a compromise plan to address our country's financial woes? Neither did I.
The sad part is that the cuts and reductions that will be coming in the months ahead will most certainly hit the organizations and services that provide the most direct contact to those in need and that number is growing day by day. It takes money to make a lot of things happen...every group needs it at some point for services, products, facilities and even justifiable wages and salaries. Many will be unable to deliver those services and may have to shut down completely. Cash donations are vital and big or small, always welcomed. For those organizations running a tight budget it often makes more sense to receive a monthly contribution rather than a lump sum. They can make better projections knowing that each month they already have your donation of $5, 10 or 50. Only you know what you can afford to give but consider the impact of forgoing just one latte', or a Big Mac meal each week. It adds up fast. Use your credit card and set up a monthly donation and you will never miss it.