Giving The Gift Of Love For The Holidays
By: Hope Wilkos, Writer
The best months of the year are saved for the end. November and December have so much significance, the union of family and friends to give thanks together for the goodness bestowed upon them, past and present and more to come in the future.
The month of November joins families to celebrate Thanksgiving, being able to enjoy food and friendship together. The temperatures become milder and the thermometer begins to drop, creating a chill outside and a warmth in the home. The ever famous ‘Black Friday’ sends brave and determined shoppers into the marketplace to work for the gifts that they so desire and at amazing prices.
Once November comes to an end, it is only a matter of counting down the days until Christmas is here. The spirit of St. Nick takes a hold on not only children, but, adults as well. Happiness and good tidings fill the air. December is decorated with tinsel and glorious tree-topping lights, accompanied by the aroma of balsam and pine mixed with sugar cookies and pumpkin pie. The atmosphere is perfect and welcoming.
The largest part of these monthly memories lies in the joy and camaraderie that live in our hearts at a time when there is so much unrest and ill will towards others. It is easy to take for granted the satisfying flavor of a warm mug of cocoa or egg nog on Christmas morning and all the beautifully wrapped presents under the tree. If you have never thought of it before, giving can be even more rewarding than getting. The concept allows you to open your heart to the holidays, contributing to the dreams of others. There are so many children and adults all across the globe that are unable to experience this yuletide cheer brought on by the holidays. Imagine people like you and I being able to make a huge difference in the lives of others at such a rich and prosperous time of the year.
Here are some amazing non-profit organizations that continue to do great things, especially at this time of the year:
- Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation “fights childhood cancer, one cup at a time.” With all the donations they receive, the funds go to raise awareness of childhood cancer causes in the hopes of discovering new treatments and cures. The foundation works to empower all children to become involved and learn how to make a difference in the lives of those kids who have been diagnosed with cancer. All kinds of masterful events are held to raise awareness and funds such as the 5K Lemon Run, the Lemon Ball, a Lemon mixer and Lemonade Days, among others. Childhood cancer heroes are recognized for their drive, determination and inspiring actions. This is one great organization with a heart as big as they come.
- Our Military Kids was founded for all those kids whose mom and/or dad are in the military, working to keep the United States safe. This organization understands how difficult it can be to spend the holidays without one of their parents. For this very reason, Our Military Kids is assisting kids between 5th and 12th grade that have a parent deployed by the National Guard and Army Reserve. They also support children of wounded and fallen warriors from all branches of the service. Children are offered all kinds of exciting activities like sports, fine arts and tutoring if needed. The organization makes it very easy to donate in a number of ways.
- Angels In Fur Dog Rescue makes every child a happier one with a special companion waiting to be adopted and loved. Many a letter to Santa includes a wish for a dog. This non-profit dog rescue is devoted to rescuing, rehabilitation and restoring dogs to loving homes. With the donation they receive for adoption, the dogs rescued are given medical treatment, kenneling, food, dog beds and treats. By going to their website, you can view all the adorable dogs giving you that precious look “Please make me yours.” View all the furry angels that would be a perfect holiday gift for the child in your life.
- Be An Be An elf.org is a non-profit organization that believes in the power of imagination. Generosity comes in all shapes and sizes. That is what Be An org is all about. It is comprised fully of good-hearted volunteers, however, funding is required to keep the organization going on a daily basis and to help in recognizing, on a widespread basis, what the duties and responsibilities are. Given a very modest beginning, elves are located in over a dozen cities across the United States now. These teams of Santa’s helpers visit the main post office and select letters written by children to Santa and read these letters to Santa. There is many a selfless child that may ask for Santa to help their single mom pay bills or put a smile on her face. Be An elf.org‘s volunteers buy gifts for children with fewer privileges than other kids. The gifts are mailed and delivered by postal workers, a total surprise and joy to the recipients. A tremendous amount of dedication goes into being one of these elves. Sign up to volunteer to help Santa or go to their website to find ways to donate time or funding. There is also a similar organization for the elderly living in poverty or celebrating the holidays alone, AidForFriends.org.
This is just a small list of the many agencies and organizations that can give a sense of fulfillment to those who participate and exhilaration to those who have become the recipients of this good will. After all, the belief in banding together in love and goodness should be more than just a dream, let’s make it a reality this holiday season in 2016.
