Give Thanks, Give Back

As we enter the giving season, we often look for ways to demonstrate gratitude to those who matter most to us. The holiday season is a wonderful time to give back but is also a great reminder about the importance of giving back year-round. One excellent way to show gratitude is to seek out opportunities to give back to the people or organizations that help make a difference in our communities.  Supporting a local charity or non-profit can have a direct and immediate impact on the very community you’re a member of.  To help get you into the holiday mood while also tapping into your spirit of service, here are some ways you can give thanks by giving back.
 
Volunteering with a local charity like Aging Resources, a food bank, a library, or a shelter is a great way to help your neighbors in need.  In Colorado especially, there are many opportunities to volunteer around the holidays.  Volunteering doesn’t require a lot of time either.  Many non-profits, like Aging Resources, offer flexibility and remote opportunities so you can volunteer when it works best for you.
 
If you don’t have the time to volunteer, consider making a donation to a local charity.  On December 5th Colorado celebrates Colorado Gives Day, a statewide day of giving that supports the non-profits that make a difference right here in our great state.  By “giving where you live” you are directly helping organizations that work to make a difference in your community.  This year especially many non-profits (including Aging Resources) are seeing an increase in need and a decrease in funding.  If you have the means, please consider supporting Aging Resources on Colorado Gives Day by donating here.  If you’re not able to financially donate, please help spread the word about Aging Resources by creating your own (free) fundraising page on our behalf via Colorado Gives Day.  Learn more about how to do that here.
 
Donating your time or resources to support those around you is extremely beneficial both for you and your community. It is statistically proven that people who give back regularly are healthier both physically and mentally.

Giving back is also a great way to get to know your community and its citizens. When you volunteer or donate locally, you get a better understanding of the circumstances of other members of your community.

No matter how you choose to express gratitude and give back this holiday season, it has the potential to make a big difference in the life of another person and that is definitely something to be thankful for!

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Author

Amy Pfister - Community Engagement Coordinator