Tis the season to spend time with your loved ones, focus on what matters most and spread cheer. It’s also important to remember how generosity is a huge part of spreading cheer. So, while you should give yourself that much-needed break, you can also think about ways to share your light and give back over the holidays.
Spread goodwill throughout the community
Taking pride and helping in your community can make a huge difference. Donating to food banks or volunteering at soup kitchens are fantastic ways to give back and spread cheer. Likewise, you can reach out to local charities and offer to help or spend time at the library reading to kids. You’re helping people directly by helping them get everything they need without having to choose between essentials.
A Foresters Care™ grant is an excellent way to give back to your community. Foresters Financial™ members can apply for two yearly grants worth $200 apiece to seize the moment and help their local community. Members who gain these grants can host food drives or put together care kits for local shelters, something Almarie did with her grant.
Inspire everyone to share their light locally
Candle making is a fantastic way for members to add a little more light to the world, literally. You can organize a candle making opportunity to share and celebrate Foresters Purpose with your community. Invite friends, relatives, neighbours and everyone else to learn the easiest way to make candles, host a fundraising event and donate the proceeds to local causes. Don’t forget to use festive fragrances like cinnamon nutmeg and cloves. It’s also a great chance to help the planet by showing people how to live a zero-waste lifestyle.
Support local businesses
Explore your neighborhood and uncover hidden gems. Many people flock to the big online retailers and supermarkets over the holidays. But buying local means you support your community and help it thrive. It also gives you the opportunity to connect with people in your area, hear their stories and make their day. You may just find your new favorite local store for gifts that mean more or food that tastes much sweeter.
Do something small to make a big difference
Sometimes, it doesn’t take much. A simple act like smiling at someone, holding the door open for a stranger or helping a colleague with their workload can all make a big difference. You never know when people need it and it doesn’t cost you a penny.
Learn how other cultures celebrate the holidays
There are many celebrations at this time of year, and every family even has their own way of celebrating over the festive season. Take the opportunity to discover how other cultures celebrate. Learn all about Hannukah or Kwanzaa to understand traditions and even get involved with the festivities with your neighbours.
No matter how you celebrate, the holidays are a time for family and friends. Why not arrange an event that brings everyone together by applying for a Foresters Moments™ community grant? This is your chance to spend time with friends old and new and create a joyful moment for everyone involved.
Spread festive cheer throughout your community
Some would say there’s no better way to share your light than by carolling. Get your friends and family together and go around the neighborhood to sing your hearts out and spread cheer. Collect money for your favourite charity along the way to collect meaningful donations for those in need.
Be there for someone
The holidays are not a happy time for everyone. Go for a walk with a friend or send a text to let someone know you’re thinking of them. You can visit an elderly neighbour or plan some one-on-one time with a loved one.
Offer your support to friends, relatives, neighbours or even strangers who might be struggling. Loneliness, depression and anxiety can all spike around the holidays,1 so being there for someone could be just what they need at this time of the year.
Be kind to yourself
It’s your holiday too, so be kind to yourself and recharge to help your light shine bright.
Some great ways to take care of yourself over the holidays include:2
- Eat well
- Don’t overextend yourself
- Stick to a budget
- Take some time to yourself
- Find the joy in every moment of your holiday
Tis the season
The season of giving is a great time to consider what matters most as we spend time with our friends, family and community. Remember, these are just some of the best ways to share your light and make the world a warmer place for everyone—during the holidays and all year round.
Sources
1 https://winnipeg.citynews.ca/2021/12/13/canadian-mental-health-christmas-poll/ (2021)
2 https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/christmas-and-mental-health/christmas-coping-tips/ (2023)
Footnotes
Foresters member benefits are non-contractual, subject to benefit specific eligibility requirements, definitions and limitations and may be changed or cancelled without notice or are no longer available.
424170 CAN/US (11/24)
