The holidays can seem like a big consumerist nightmare. Christmas decorations show up during October, while a lot of us who enjoy the spooky season are still trying to celebrate Halloween. Mariah Carey, opens a new window starts blasting from every speaker. The relentless advertisements and pleas from companies to buy more stuff is overwhelming. Even though we’re told that “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year”, opens a new window, it can feel stressful, especially for those who may be struggling, are far from loved ones, or have tense relationships with their families.
But the holidays are also a reminder of the importance of giving and caring for one another. Stories like A Christmas Carol, opens a new window and It’s a Wonderful Life, opens a new window remind us of the impact we can make in the lives of others. To avoid becoming a Scrooge myself and not lose all hope for humanity, I choose to combat the holiday grumps by giving back what I can to support members of our community who are struggling with finding housing, food, and other essentials, and I encourage you to do the same!
Besides the obvious, another good reason to participate in community service is to make connections. Our current world can feel divided and isolated, and I find it hard to make friends as an adult, opens a new window. A benefit of giving back to the community and volunteering is finding like-minded people who are passionate about the same things you are.
Below is a list of organizations where you can volunteer or receive aid if you need it. Volunteers can also use websites like Serve For Good, opens a new window, Volunteer Houston, opens a new window, and Volunteer Match, opens a new window.
Kids' Meals, opens a new window
Food Not Bombs, opens a new window
Friends of the Harris County Public Library, opens a new window
Dress for Success, opens a new window
Meals on Wheels, opens a new window
Houston Pets Alive, opens a new window
Neighborhood Gardens, opens a new window
Maybe you just need some examples of human goodness in the world and the impact that kindness can have. If so, we've got a list of books below for you to check out. Do you have a story of a time where you were helped or when someone helped you? Spread the cheer by sharing it with us in the comments!
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