Many of us think about ways we can give back to the community. There are so many ways to give more during this time of the year! You might even have a few holiday traditions that involve supporting charities and good causes. This holiday season, I am sharing 5 unique ways that you can give back other than donating money to a charity:
1. Support companies that give back to the community.
One of my favorite ways to give back is by supporting local mission-based companies. We can personally help keep our communities strong by shopping local. During the holiday season, we tend to make more purchases, so shopping at local businesses that are mission-based is an incredible way to make an impact. Not sure how to find local businesses that deserve your support? Check out the Biz Recs map for a list of hundreds of small businesses where each of your dollars will count. One great way to support local businesses that are making an impact is to buy gift cards! Gift cards make easy gifts for the holidays and your friends and family will also get to discover some impactful businesses in the area.
2. Donate airline miles.
Did you know that the airline miles or credit card points sitting in your account could be making a difference? Another way to give back this holiday season is by donating your airline miles! There are many charities and programs that accept donations of airline miles and credit card rewards points. For example, your points can support programs like Miles4Migrants that helps to reunite families of refugees and asylum seekers. JustGiving is another platform that makes giving easy. You can donate your American Express rewards points to a charity of your choice. Other charities that accept miles as donations include Make a Wish, The American Red Cross, and many others. Learn more about how you can donate your rewards points and miles through your credit card’s or airline’s website.
3. Volunteer your time.
More volunteers are always needed to support good causes. Depending on where you live, you can find local opportunities to volunteer your time on different websites or on Facebook. Try subscribing to newsletters that will help you keep up-to-date with fundraising and charity events that need volunteers. Giving of your time is fulfilling and is an excellent way to give back!
4. Use AmazonSmile for holiday shopping.
As wonderful as it would be to shop local businesses for every holiday gift, we also benefit from the convenience of websites like Amazon. If you’re planning on doing some holiday shopping for gifts or decor through Amazon this year, try using AmazonSmile! You can shop Amazon’s full selection at the same cost to you, but they will donate 0.5% of your purchase to a charitable organization. You can even choose which charity to support with your purchase. To take it a step further, you can also donate products to charities that have created lists of what they need through AmazonSmile. Such a convenient way to give back during the holiday season!
5. Spread the word.
One of the most important ways to give back is by being a voice that spreads awareness about good causes and charity opportunities. Spread the word to friends or on social media about local businesses that are mission-based and deserve support. Post about programs that allow you to donate your miles or points. Tell your family members about a charity you believe in or invite them to volunteer with you. Finally, encourage more people to shop using AmazonSmile, especially during the holidays as we make extra purchases. Each of these small steps will spread awareness and help you make the most significant impact possible!
How are you making an impact this holiday season?
I’d love to hear about how you are giving back this holiday season. Share in the comments below!
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