The holiday season is about spending time with family and friends, giving and receiving gifts, while also appreciating the things you already have. As the end of the year approaches and the holidays are upon us, create a new tradition helping others. Luckily, there are plenty of ways you can give back alongside the people you love most. Here are five examples of how you can contribute to your community and beyond.
1. Support World AIDS Day.
Worldwide, 37 million people are living with HIV/AIDS, but thanks to lifesaving medication, many people are living healthy lives. During December, organizations are raising awareness in honor of World AIDS Day, Dec. 1, so join with family and friends to find a way to take part in the journey to end AIDS. Here’s a tip: research companies to see if they will match donations. For example, from now until Dec. 31, for every donation made on bankofamerica.com/red, Bank of America will match dollar for dollar, including a double match on #GivingTuesday, which also falls on Dec. 1. (Donations are up to a maximum of $1,000 per donor in the aggregate, and up to a maximum total corporate donation of $500,000).
2. Friendsgiving party.
At your annual Friendsgiving get-together, cook with a purpose: host a group of friends or family members to make a meal or bake cookies for your local homeless shelter. Even the simplest gesture can help you spread holiday cheer in your community.
3. Host a clothing drive.
As the temperatures drop and you switch out your tank tops and shorts for sweaters and jackets, consider teaming up with friends and family to host a local clothing drive. Kick-off your clothing drive with an event such as a party, and ask each attendee to bring an item for donation.
4. Volunteer at a local shelter.
Whether you enjoy making a difference in your community or just putting a smile on someone’s face, one of the best ways for a group to volunteer is at your local homeless shelter or senior living facility. In addition to giving back to your community, this could also be a helpful team-building exercise.
5. Take a walk with dogs in need.
Furry friends deserve some holiday cheer too! Gather the family one weekend afternoon to donate time and attention to your local animal shelter. Volunteers provide dogs waiting for adoption with needed exercise and socialization.
There are plenty of ways to put more meaning into quality time with your loved ones. To learn more about Bank of America and (RED)’s World AIDS Day initiatives, and how you can give back this holiday season, visit bankofamerica.com/AIDSfree.
