Ah, the holiday season — the time for cozy sweaters, endless Mariah Carey playlists, and the overwhelming guilt of realizing you haven’t volunteered since 2018… okay, maybe that last one is just me, but I’ve been feeling a little out of touch with the whole giving-back thing lately.
Growing up, I volunteered at my local church and the Special Olympics in my hometown, and those experiences were the heart of the holiday magic for me. There’s nothing quite like seeing how even the smallest act of kindness can brighten someone’s day.
But somewhere along the way, I fell out of the habit, and now I’m writing this article as a way to not only inspire myself to jump back in but to hopefully inspire you, too.
So, if you’re looking for ways to give back this holiday season, here are some ideas ranging from heartwarming to downright delicious that can help you spread some cheer without totally overloading your December to-do list.
1. Volunteer Your Time
Volunteering is the OG of holiday giving back. Whether it’s serving meals at a local shelter, helping with a toy drive, or organizing donations at a food pantry, there’s a world of opportunities waiting for a helping hand. If you’re not sure where to start, many organizations post volunteer opportunities online. Bonus: you’ll get a warm, fuzzy feeling that not even the fanciest hot cocoa can replicate.
You can find great places to volunteer here.
2. Support Local Small Businesses
Shopping local is the gift that keeps on giving. Not only are you checking off your holiday shopping list, but you’re also helping keep the heart of Columbus alive and thriving. From local boutiques to charming restaurants, there’s no shortage of spots to explore.
Need ideas? Peruse our website for articles about the best local shops and restaurants, or check out our guides for niche events and hidden gems. You’ll find unique gifts, support small business owners, and probably discover your new favorite coffee shop in the process.
3. Donate to a Food Bank or Shelter
There’s something wonderfully simple about donating to a food bank or shelter — it’s a direct (and relatively easy, as long as you have the means) way to make someone’s holiday a little brighter. Gather non-perishable goods or fresh items to drop off at your local food bank. Or, if you’re short on time, many organizations make it easy to donate money online.
Pro tip: That random can of cranberry sauce you’ve been ignoring? It’s time for it to shine. The Mid-Ohio Food Bank is a great place to start, but most towns have their own food banks available.
4. Spread Cheer with Random Acts of Kindness
Sometimes, the smallest gestures have the biggest impact. Leave a big tip for your favorite barista, pay for the person behind you in the drive-thru, or surprise someone with a prepaid meal. Personally, I love surprising service workers with an extra-generous tip — it’s a simple way to make someone’s day (and selfishly, it makes me feel awesome, too. It’s a win-win!).
5. Clean Out Your Closet for Donations
If your closet is starting to look more “haunted house” than “cozy sanctuary,” it might be time for a purge. Gather gently used clothes, coats, and accessories and donate them to a local shelter or nonprofit. Not only will you help someone stay warm this winter, but you’ll also create space for more holiday PJs. Win-win.
6. Discover Local Nonprofits and Artists
The holidays are also a great time to connect with local nonprofits and artists. A good place to start? The Columbus Foundation, which offers a directory of organizations doing incredible work in our community.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out our guide to local live music, niche events, and other ways to support talented creators in Columbus. Your purchases and donations not only spread holiday cheer but also keep our arts and culture scene alive.
7. Host a Holiday Drive
Rally your friends, family, or coworkers and host a drive for food, toys, or coats. It’s a great way to combine holiday socializing with doing good. Plus, you’ll finally have an answer for that “What have you been up to?” question at family gatherings.
Closing Thoughts
Giving back during the holiday season doesn’t have to be overwhelming or time-consuming — it’s all about finding what resonates with you. Whether it’s volunteering, tipping generously, or shopping small, every act of kindness adds a little extra sparkle to the season.
So, let’s do this together. Let’s embrace the magic of giving back and make this holiday season not just about what’s under the tree, but about the joy we share with others.