top of page

25 Ways to Give Back This Holiday Season

It’s easy to get caught up in the spirit of the holidays: gift-giving, visiting friends and family, decorating, baking, attending holiday parties… It’s an exciting, busy time for all of us. But during this hectic time, it’s important to take a step back from our own worries to remember how we can serve our communities.


How to Lend a Helping Hand During the Holidays


This holiday season, give back in any small (or large) way that you can! Remember, every little bit can be a big help to a family or individual in need. Here are some simple yet impactful ways to give back to your community.


Donate to a shelter or pantry


People filling boxes for charity

Check your local food pantry or homeless shelter to see what they need most. Food and clothing are almost always needed. Winter gear, like coats, scarves, hats, and gloves, tends to be in demand at this time of year. Workwear, specifically for folks trying to reenter the workforce, is also a great donation idea.


Most shelters or pantries also collect unused toiletries such as deodorant, toothpaste, razors, diapers, feminine products, and more.


Donate blood


Give the gift of life with a blood donation!


Donate books


Need to clear out a little space on your bookshelf? Donate gently used books to your local library or to a school.


Make a homeless care kit


Donate thoughtfully! Create a homeless kit with the biggest impact on a person in need. Potential items to consider include: socks (this is the #1 most asked-for item), gloves, a water bottle, bandages, wet wipes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, tuna and cracker packs, single-serving snacks, and nail clippers.


Get more ideas here!


Start a local networking group


Meet new people in your community, help connect employers and employees, and learn more about potential needs in your area.


Host a fundraiser


People at a fundraiser

Lots of big fundraising groups, like Toys for Tots, make it easy to get started!


Host a food drive


Contact your local food bank to find out what they need and where to deliver your collections.


Volunteer at your local food bank or shelter


People volunteering at a food pantry

Whether you’re sorting, stacking, or delivering, your time will be appreciated!


Visit your local animal shelter


Shelter dogs are always eager for walks and attention! And shelters often need help with things like washing, cleaning, and feeding.


Be a mentor


Sometimes, the most valuable gift you can give is experience! Lend someone your knowledge, and help them open a new door of possibility.


Offer your services for free for a deserving group


two women talking on a couch

Use your business to give back! Offer your services to a person or group that could use a little extra time or help.


Visit nursing homes


Nobody likes to be alone on the holidays, but sadly, many people spend the holiday season without friends or family. Pay a visit and brighten someone’s day!


Volunteer to read or record audio books


Many libraries offer programs for handicapped readers and need help from unimpared readers. You might even be able to record your own audio book!


Make a new penpal friend


Everyone likes getting mail, especially older generations. Find an elderly pen pal and stay in touch!


Build a house with your team


a team building a house

Make a huge difference in a family’s life by partnering up with Habitat for Humanity to build a house for a family in need.


Donate gift cards


Purchase gift cards from local businesses and donate them to school raffles or fundraisers. You’re supporting local business, driving new clients to smallers stores, and benefitting local fundraisers!


Pay for the person behind you in line


It’s always nice to get a free meal!


Fundraise through your platform


Pick a worthy cause and raise some money through your business or work.


Donate a portion of your proceeds


Start a donation program where a portion of proceeds, or proceeds from certain types of sales or services, goes to charity.


Set up a monthly draft to charity


Pick a charity and set up a monthly draft from your account to donate to them. Doesn’t have to be a lot; it’ll still add up for your charity!


Shop local for holiday gifts


Forget Amazon—visit local stores and businesses for your holiday gifts this year.


Take your team to lunch locally


a team having lunch at a local restaurant

Choose a favorite or new local restaurant and take your team out for a holiday lunch.


Attend games at local schools


Usually admissions prices aren’t a lot, but your money, and your support, can make a big difference for kids.


Review a local business


Had a good experience at a local business? Write a rave review! If you’re a business owner, you know how far a few good words can go!


Foster or adopt a rescue pet


a cute dog waiting to be adopted

Thousands of shelter pets across the country are patiently waiting for their fur-ever homes! Not ready for a long-term commitment? Volunteer as a foster home. You’ll give a pet a comfortable place to put their best paw forward outside of the stressful kennel environment as they await their fur-ever home.


Wishing You a Happy & Healthy Holiday Season!


From all of us at Corridor Consulting, have a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season! We’d love to see you in our own community, Corridor Community!


bottom of page