The holiday season encourages people to invest in charitable efforts for those in varying situations and levels of need. This time of year evokes a sense of gratefulness we may often take for granted; but when counting our blessings or spreading good cheer, we sense the deviation between our situation and our neighbors.

I believe that it is wonderful that organizations invest in projects and fundraisers centered around the holiday season and giving back. This need we see transparently during the holiday season is always there, yet the smell of a home-cooked turkey or the sight of glittering lights around town seem to increase the level of participation and willingness to acknowledge the divide.

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Gratitude is not only a process of self-reflection and taking inventory of one’s blessings. It is best expressed with reciprocation, this time of year and every day. Acts of kindness are available, such as a giving tree at a local church or school. You may see those individuals, see the need they have and give back daily in so many ways.

I write this as a note to myself as well. It is easy to get wrapped up in the holiday spirit and throw all your kindness into a couple months of the year, but taking a moment to review the bigger picture is key. If you can offer a voice to someone or a cause who needs one, do that. If you can donate to someone in need, whether it be food or clothing, do that. The spectrum of gifts we have at our disposal to give transcends economic level, religion, etc. Every act of kindness does not have to have a cost. Kindness is free.

If you are unsure where to start, Volunteer Match is a website to research various opportunities of kindness in the United States.

Remember, ’tis the season is every season, and now is always the best time to give back.

— Stephanie Makowski, account executive