The holidays are a time full of cheer, laughter, and our loved ones. We think of food, gifts, and spending time with friends and family. For those less fortunate, they may be think when they are going to eat their next meal or when they will see their families again. The holidays are a time of giving and reflecting on how fortunate you are and giving back to those who do not have much. With so many different donation and volunteer opportunities to choose from, it is easy to help change the world and to brighten someone's day this holiday season. Here are seven charitable ways to give back this season.

1. Pay for the person behind you in line at the coffee shop.

Spending an extra $3 can easily brighten someone else’s day.

2. Donate presents to a children’s hospital.

Imagine being stuck in a hospital bed all day and not being able to open presents from underneath the tree. Doesn’t seem like Christmas to me. Due to illnesses, some children may not be able to go home during the holidays. Go out and buy a gift for a child who deserves to smile through a tough time.

3. Donate blood.

By donating a pint of blood you can help save up to three lives. I don’t know what can be more rewarding than that.

4. Create care packages for the homeless.

Put together a small care package containing snacks, hygiene items, water bottles, and anything else that you can think of that will be helpful for living on the streets. Take a group of friends or even family out with you to help distribute these packages to any homeless person on the street.

5. Visit a nursing home.

Some elderly people don’t have a family to come and visit them, so having any sort of company would really help to brighten his or her day!

6. Send holiday cards to soldiers and veterans.

Members of the military sacrifice for our country. Many of us take simple holiday cards for granted. Sending festive holiday cards is one way to show that we appreciate all that they do. The American Red Cross knows that a few words can go a long way, which is why they sponsor Holidays for Heroes. All you’ll need is some construction paper, markers, and holiday spirit!

7. Volunteer at a soup kitchen.

Most of the holidays are spent sitting around a table enjoying food way more food than anyone can possibly eat. For some, even right in your own community, the holidays mean being alone, without food, and even without a warm place to go. Regardless of what holiday you celebrate, consider spending some of it giving back to your community by volunteering at a soup kitchen. Volunteers are always needed during the holiday season.