How to Have a Gift-Less Christmas

Did you ever have a hard time creating a Christmas wish list when asked? If so, it's because we are so fortunate to have so much. That being the case, do we really need to scour the malls looking for the lastest and greatest new "toys?" Not really. How about instead of giving presents this year, we use the items from past holidays, and put our money toward something more useful like time together or helping others in need?

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Give the gift of your time to your family or friends. Create an I.O.U. by hand or make one on the computer using Word or Publisher. Offer something you know your family or friends will enjoy such as time together at a local museum, dinner at a favorite restuarant, or even a promise to help with house projects or run errands.

2. Make a donation to a charitable organization in lieu of gifts. Pick something that is near and dear to your heart or make the donation in your family member's name. Allow her to decide where the money should go. On Christmas day, instead of sitting around opening presents, share stories about the charity and its programs. American Red Cross, American Cancer Society, or your local hospital are just a few suggestions of places that could really use your help. The Seva Foundation is a great charity to donate to as well. You can help pay for someone's eye surgery through a donation to their website.

3. Take all the money that you would spend on Christmas gifts and pool it together to purchase items to help a needy family in a foreign country. For example, buy a cow for a poor family through an online charity website. In doing so, you will provide that family with milk for many years to come.

4. Volunteer your time during the holidays. Instead of ushering your family in and out of crowded malls for things you don't need anyway, sign up to help those in need. You'll be helping those less fortunate while spending quality time with your family and teaching your kids to make a difference for others. Soup kitchens are always looking for people to serve food and nursing homes always welcome visitors and Christmas carolers to keep the residents company. For more volunteer opportunities, visit the VolunteerMatch, ServeNet, or Volunteering in America websites.

Resources

• Donate an Animal to a Family in Need
• Donate to the Seva Foundation
• Volunteer Match
• ServeNet
• Volunteering in America