Does the commercialism of this time of year get you down? Are you concerned that members of your family may be caught up in the “what are you going to do for me mode” instead of the “what can I do for others mode?”  Well, this might be the perfect time of year to turn things around.  Opportunities abound for individuals and families who want to make a difference in the lives of others.

Just in case you have totally lost faith in those around you, read a few of these findings recently reported by the Corporation for National and Community Service:

• Volunteerism in this country has rebounded and we are at a 30 year high.  In New Hampshire, roughly 30 percent of those 16 and older volunteer.
• Older teenagers (16-19) have more than doubled their time spent volunteering since 1989.  About 55 percent of youth participate in volunteer activities each year.
• College students increased their volunteering by 20 percent between 2002 and 2005.
• Baby Boomers volunteer at a much higher rate in mid-life than the previous generation.
• The 65 and older age group increased their volunteering rate 64 percent since 1974.
• Since 1989 there has been a 63 percent increase in volunteering with educational and youth serving organizations.

All of this volunteerism is cause for celebration! Young people volunteer because they feel compassion for others in need, or they want to do something for a cause they believe in … not unlike the reasons many adults volunteer. 

So if this holiday season has put you in a giving mood, consider giving something of yourself and encourage others to do a few good deeds as well. You might be the inspiration needed to motivate your family, friends or coworkers to make a difference in someone else’s life.  And guess what?  Everyone will benefit from those great feelings of satisfaction one gets from helping others.  It is a win-win situation.

What can you volunteer to do this month?  You don’t need to have money to give of yourself, but if you have the means, donations of food, clothing, and gifts are always welcomed.  Following are a few suggestions to get you started:

• “Adopt” a child, family or elderly person in need this season
• Donate food to a local food pantry for distribution
• Cook something for someone you know who needs a lift
• Visit seniors in your neighborhood
• Play a game or cards with someone in a nursing home
• Assist in serving meals at a shelter
• Donate a gift card or certificate
• Buy presents for someone you don’t know
• Volunteer at an organization needing help sorting donations
• Provide comfort to someone in need
• Get your coworkers involved in a volunteer effort or donation drive
• Invite people who are alone to enjoy a meal with your family
• Donate items you not longer use
• Give to your favorite charity
• Share a special skill you have with others
• Assist with a home or car repair
• Call someone that needs a good listener
• Give a phone calling card
• Help prepare food baskets
• Buy a gas card to contribute to a worthy organization to share with someone in need
• Donate personal care items to a shelter

Hopefully you will find time in your busy schedule to do something nice for someone else this holiday season. Maybe you will inspire others to volunteer to make a difference throughout the whole year. Maybe, you will even stimulate someone to do a whole lifetime of giving! 

To learn more about what’s needed and how you can help, contact your nearby United Way office, a local community service organization or your town office.  If you are looking for a few specific ideas, the internet is a good place to look as well.  Check out these websites:

• Volunteer Match
• United Way
• Energize
• Give Spot

Charlotte W. Cross, Extension Professor/Specialist, 4-H Youth Development