The Best Gift
In the midst of the craziness of life, volunteering seems like one more thing to, “add to the list.” I get it. It seems like a good idea, something we should do, a way to give back. But when? Schedules are jam-packed, there is so much on our to-do list, and we have try to sneak some sleep in there.
Our pastor once said, “One of the best ways to grow closer to people is to volunteer together. There is something that happens when two people come together to help others. It just does.” Another thing he said is that in our crazy mixed up world, volunteering truly adds to our life and makes it so much more rich than we can image. When you take that step, it really does not feel like it is, “one more thing to add to the list.” Instead, adding the experience of volunteering refocuses your time and shifts your priorities. It doesn’t make sense, but neither does this world we live in. Nothing screams love like helping someone else by volunteering on this little love holiday, or any day, really. 🙂 Partnering with a local church can help you get connected with places to volunteer in your community.
In addition to volunteering, there are so many other ways to give other than just locally and of your time. Giving financially to organizations that you believe in is equally as important!
Compassion International, Heifer International, and Kiva are three organizations that I absolutely love! I grew up giving to Compassion International and sponsoring a child with my family. In college, I started sponsoring a sweet boy of my own from Peru and have watched him grow and succeed. I love receiving snail mail from him and getting to know him more. To find out more or sponsor a child, click here.
Heifer International is something I decided to support one year around Christmas. I decided to buy my sister and parents an animal for a cause rather than material gifts. It’s a wonderful organization with small and large opportunities! Read more here.
Kiva is an organization I recently found out about from my sister-in-law and brother-in-law. It is such a great program and such a fun twist on giving back! Read more, here.
There really is nothing better than knowing you’re touching lives around the world. It’s even a great way to give in leu of gifts for any holiday or just because! For more information comment here or e-mail me with any questions!
Happy (almost) lovey day! xo