Since November is known as the month for being thankful, make December the month for giving. There are so many different things you can do to help your community. If you end up liking these things, you can do them at any time! Here is a list of things that can really make a difference in people's lives.

1. Volunteer at a soup kitchen

Although this is very typical, soup kitchen's are always in need of volunteers. Most people are really busy during the holidays, so if you can spare a few hours it would really help! You might even meet a few people while you are there. They might even persuade you to come back.

2. Donate old clothes to a homeless shelter

If you're like me, you get tired of wearing the same clothes all the time. It's time to retire what you don't like anymore and give it to someone who needs it.

3. Write letters to our active members and veterans

It doesn't take a long time to write a note of appreciation to someone. The active members and veterans have done so much for our country. It's easy to forget about them when you're celebrating the holidays with your family. It's nice to remember that they have family too and anything would be much appreciated.

4. Make tie-blankets to donate

I did this a few years ago with the money I would've gotten for my birthday. I gathered some of my friends, turned on some Christmas music, and worked on making blankets for people in need. It warmed my heart knowing that someone else was going to be warm during these cold winter months. This is an activity that might take a little longer, but it's definitely worth the wait.

5. Adopt a family at your local church during the holidays

It is very common for churches to have "Adopt a family" during the month of December. The families are always in need of things we usually take for granted. It's hard to imagine not having things like coats, gloves, toys, and canned goods. If you have any spare items you are willing to give, this is the time to do it.

6. Pay for the meal of the person in front of you

This is truly such a sweet surprise. You can do this inside the restaurant or in the drive-through. It doesn't have to be at an expensive place. You never know the burden that you are lifting off of someone's shoulders.