The holiday season allows us to engage in the spirit of giving back, helping those less fortunate or suffering hardships. We may also think of the customers, clients, and colleagues that have impacted our business over the past year. It is great to show appreciation in a way that’s unique to you and your business.
For small business owners and entrepreneurs working out of temporary office space, pooling ideas and resources is an engaging way to give back through a single large donation or gifting several charities.
Six Charitable Giving Ideas
Here are some non-traditional charitable gifting ideas that will give meaning and cheer to anyone on your list.
Charitable Organizations
Within the US alone, there are numerous charitable organizations that all offer unique ways to give back. Causes support everything from humanitarian relief to environmental causes; visit a specific fund online or use an umbrella agency like Alternative Gifts International that will apply your donation to the vetted organization within their group of your choosing.
Hospitals for Sick Children
Children that are unable to leave the hospital during the holidays are especially vulnerable. Donations of small toys, hand-held electronics, comfy clothing, and cuddly blankets are great gifts but check with the Children’s hospital first to ensure your gift idea is permitted.
A meaningful gift is to donate accommodation fees that allow families of limited means the opportunity to be near their children during the holidays.
Feeding Families
Sadly, many families are struggling financially this holiday season from illness, unemployment, and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Some families must choose between fresh food or heating their homes through the winter months. Supplying healthy meals during the holidays and beyond can extend the spirit of giving.
Devastation Relief
There are numerous reputable organizations like the American Red Cross that provide disaster relief throughout the world by supplying food, medical supplies, temporary housing, and much more. Your company can contact these agencies to learn the best way to donate.
Animal Relief
You may choose to give a gift of support to agencies that protect animals, from domesticated family pets to livestock and endangered species. Providing a heartwarming and educational opportunity for teaching children about their planet and how to respect its non-human inhabitants, there are countless local and international agencies to choose from, like Humane Society International and the World Wildlife Fund.
Volunteering
Why not volunteer some of your time to a food bank or soup kitchen. Extra hands are always deeply appreciated during the holiday season, and it is a great feeling to help those in need hands-on.
No matter what you decide when choosing to give back this holiday season, the impact of giving the gift can be as powerful as the receiving. Why restrict your generosity to just the holiday season? Bringing a smile to a child’s face, putting food on someone’s table, providing relief to those hit by natural disasters, or giving endangered species a chance at survival are meaningful gifts that continue to give long into the new year.
