The holiday season is the perfect time to reflect on gratitude and the joy of giving. At Tranont, one of our core values is Giving, and we believe there’s no better way to feel the festive spirit than to serve others.
From thoughtful gestures to heartwarming traditions, here are 10 ideas to make a big impact, spread joy throughout your community and fill your holidays with meaning.
1– Cookie courier service
Bake a batch of your favorite cookies and deliver them to local firefighters, police officers, or healthcare workers who may be working during the holidays. A sweet treat can go a long way in expressing gratitude for their service.
2– Joyful storytime
Pick your favorite festive children’s book and volunteer to read it to your child’s class. Make sure to check with their teacher and the school for details. You can also check with your public libraries—many offer read-aloud programs in which volunteers spend time reading to children.
3– Senior secret Santa
Reach out to local retirement homes and inquire about seniors who may be spending the holidays alone. Be a secret Santa to a senior, or two, and anonymously send small, thoughtful gifts to help brighten their season.
4– Assist our furry friends
Helping to better the lives of animals is a gratifying experience. Contact your local shelter and volunteer. Or, if you’re short on time, many shelters also accept donations like food, treats, toys, blankets, cleaning supplies, and more.
5– Volunteer with veterans
If you have a soft spot in your heart for our troops, consider sending a care package to someone actively serving. Or, volunteer at a local veterans center.
6– Shop local, spread joy
Another way to help your community during the holidays is to show your support by purchasing Christmas gifts from local boutiques, leaving raving reviews of your favorite places, and telling your friends and family about the best local shops.
7– Blanket brigade
Ensure people in your community stay cozy and warm on chilly nights by making or collecting warm blankets. Then distribute them to homeless shelters or individuals in need.
8– Grocery grab bags
Next time you're at the grocery store, pick up a few extra non-perishable items and create grocery grab bags with essential items and maybe some fun seasonal items too. Leave these bags at the doorstep of neighbors who might be facing financial hardships.
9– Pay it forward
If you’re in a drive-thru, consider paying for the order of the car behind you. Or, if you’re paying for gas, leave an extra $10 to help the next person who comes in. People will often pay it forward, so your good deed can create a ripple effect that will bring a smile to dozens of people!
10– Lift Where You Live
Want to make a big impact this season? Support our Lift Where You Live Foundation with a small donation! Every bit helps fund future projects to lift those in need, all while working toward our goal to impact 1 billion lives for good. Join us in spreading a little extra hope and kindness—together, we can make a difference! Make your donations here: https://account.venmo.com/u/tranont
Whether it's a warm gesture on Thanksgiving or holiday giving, it's the little things that create lasting joy. Embrace the season of giving by spreading love, cheer, and goodwill.