Operation Christmas Child recently had their yearly box collection. This got me thinking about charity opportunities during Christmastime. Although charity is something that we should participate in all year round, Christmas is a great opportunity to get involved. You could volunteer, donate, or organize to make a difference in people's lives. Christmas is a time for giving, not just receiving. So, I have a list of opportunities that you could refer to if you're interested in doing something this December:

1. Operation Christmas Child.

The collection date will have passed by the time you read this article, but go ahead and plan to help out next year. They have a website where you can build a box online, or you can grab one at a nearby collection area. You take one shoebox (or more if you want) and fill it with toys and necessities for a boy or girl of a certain age range of your choosing. It's fun packing a box that you know will be loved and appreciated by a child and their family. You could even pack extras of toothbrushes and clothing items in case they need several or in case they have family members.

Here's a link to their website if you're interested: https://www.samaritanspurse.org/what-we-do/operati...

There are other things that Samaritan's Purse does too if you want to check out their main website: https://www.samaritanspurse.org/.

2. Salvation Army.

You probably think of bell-ringing when you think of helping out the Salvation Army. You could do that; it's always appreciated, but there are other ways you can help too! There's always donating money, clothes, or time. There are shelters all over the country, so I'm sure you'll be able to find a shelter near you if you want to get involved there.

You can also go their website: https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/.

3. World Vision.

I remember this from a donation my middle school raised several years ago. We were donating money to send goats overseas to families who needed to make their own income. Recently, I realized that they do so much more than just goats! They'll give different animals and medicines and even build a well for the community. There are so many wonderful opportunities that this organization provides! With your donation, you could change a family's life by providing things that we take for granted every day: medicine, clean water, work, food, etc.

Here's a link to their website where you can find all the ways you can donate and help out: https://www.worldvision.org/.

I've personally helped out these organizations in one way or another (donations, bell-ringing, etc.). I wanted to make sure I did that because I didn't want to recommend something I hadn't personally dealt with before. This is for two reasons: 1) So you guys would know that these are legit and that they are recommendable. These are good organizations that do a lot of good for a lot of people. 2) I didn't want to recommend something that I wasn't willing to help out with myself. That would feel kind of hypocritical to tell you guys to donate to something that I haven't or wasn't planning to donate to. Just wanted to put that disclaimer there.

I also wanted to give you guys specific organizations and their website addresses to make it easier for you guys to check them out or donate. I could have just given you general causes to donate to, but this felt more tangible and helpful for you if you felt overwhelmed. There are a lot of needs and a lot of places to help out, so I wanted to simplify things as best as I could. There are plenty of opportunities besides the ones in this list, though. I hope you find a cause and organization that you feel passionate about.

Good charities certainly help to improve the lives of others but don't neglect those in your immediate circle, such as friends and family. We can focus so much on people in other countries and on the streets, but we can make an immediate impact on those around us too. Changing the world takes more than just a donation; it takes love and compassion. Show that to your loved ones this holiday season. Good luck!