December 2021 Newsletter

Helpful Holidays

Embrace the spirit of the season by making time to help others during this busy time of year. Giving back makes a huge difference in the community and in the lives of people affected by hardship. There are endless reasons to give back during the holiday season, including helping the community, assisting the less fortunate, and simply because of the good feeling that accompanies philanthropy.

Want to get involved but aren’t sure how? Try one of these options to make the world a little brighter this time of year. Everyone’s contribution makes a difference, no matter how small.

Volunteering

With time off work and school, dedicate some of your free time to volunteering at a local organization. Volunteer shortages are being reported throughout the United States, which may seriously reduce operations and outreach for many charitable organizations. Help minimize this impact by offering your time to serve those in need.

Get the whole family involved by making an annual tradition out of giving back to the community. Kids can help package meals, make care packages, or pick up trash.  Be sure to check for age requirements ahead of time.

Volunteering isn’t just for individuals or families –employers who organize volunteer outings for employees foster a sense of community and report increased employee engagement. Studies have shown that highly engaged employees put in 57% more effort at work than employees who are less engaged.

Donating

December is the most generous month for the United States, accounting for one-third of annual donations. Consider participating in food drives, clearing out your closet and donating privately, or financially assisting nonprofit organizations as able. Americans are famously generous, with private philanthropy accounting for 1.44% of America’s GDP annually, more than twice any other country in the world!

Awareness

The holidays are the perfect time for raising awareness as well. It is common for organizations to coordinate 5k races as a way to fundraise and raise awareness for their cause. It’s a perfect way to combine a good deed with exercise this holiday season.

Remember that giving back to the community doesn’t have to end with the holidays – people are in need year-round, and altruism doesn’t need to be seasonal.

Stop by The Bridge now through December 29th to donate to CASA and help Harrison County foster children. View their wish list here.

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