The holiday season is a time for fun and family, but it is also a time for giving back and being thankful for what you have. As you rush from store to store to pick up yet another present, you might want to take a step back and think about the true spirit of the holiday season.
Volunteering in your community is a great way to live out the true spirit of the holiday season. Every religion places great importance on giving back to its community, and many denominations are especially active at this time of year.
If you have always wanted to volunteer, the holiday season is the perfect time to do so. Here are 10 compelling reasons to volunteer this holiday season.
1. Regular staff is stretched thin during the holidays. The staff at many charities are stretched thin at holiday time, as vacation time and other duties take their toll. Volunteering at this time of year means those hardworking staff members can take time off without feeling guilty.
2. There are lots of people in need. There is no shortage of need during the holiday season. In fact, the needs are even greater at this time of year. That means the hours you give and the care you provide are sure to be appreciated - and greatly needed.
3. Giving to others will make you feel great. Volunteering is not just for others; reaching out to those in need will make you feel good too.
4. Volunteering is a great way to teach your kids by example. Children learn by example, and volunteering during the holidays is the perfect way to model good behavior. Better yet, look for ways to volunteer with your kids and let them learn firsthand the value of giving back.
5. There are plenty of exciting volunteer opportunities. There is no shortage of volunteer opportunities during the holiday season. No matter what skills you possess or what you want to do, you will find a chance to do it.
6. Volunteering with your family can bring you closer. The holidays are all about family, but it is not always easy to bring the family together. Volunteering as a family promotes bonding and helps you create happy holiday memories.
7. It is a great alternative to those boring holiday parties. If you cannot stand the thought of one more boring holiday party, just opt out and volunteer instead. You will feel better, and so will the people you help.
8. A volunteer position could morph into a future career opportunity. Volunteering gives you a great chance to network with community leaders, business owners, and other decision makers. If you are looking for a job, your holiday volunteer position just might morph into a full-time gig come the new year.
9. You will meet lots of wonderful people. Volunteers are some of the best people in the world, men, and women who give freely of their time with no expectation of reward. When you join those volunteers, you will be teaming up with some of the best people you will ever meet.
10. Giving to others is what the holiday season is all about. It is easy to lose sight of the true meaning of the holidays, especially when you are rushing around and fighting for a parking spot. Volunteering gives you a chance to step back, give thanks and think about the true meaning of this special time of year.
Whether you are a lifelong volunteer or a first-timer, there are plenty of reasons to give back this holiday season. If you have always thought about volunteering at the holidays but never done it, make this the year you finally take that step.
Click here to buy gift baskets online