By: Marya
I love Christmas. The snow, the movies, the music, and the holiday spirit make the day after Thanksgiving through December 25 my favorite time of the year. And when you’re so looking forward to something that only happens once every twelve months, it makes the other eleven months of the year a little unbearable.
To deal with this, I’ve started celebrating Christmas in June. I watch Christmas movies. I listen to Christmas music. I bake Christmas cookies. But the best thing I do during Christmas in June? I volunteer.
It’s easy to remember those in need during the holidays. You can pick up a Tree of Sharing gift tag at any mall, donate a couple bucks to the Salvation Army bell ringers, or donate food for holiday celebrations at a local food bank. But year round, it’s important to remember those less fortunate.
This June, I encourage you to donate some of your time or money to an organization you care about.
Do you think kittens are irresistibly cute? Contact the Spokane Humane Society. Offer to clean out cages or drop off some cat food or litter.
Love kids? Consider donating to Shriners Hospital for Children or offering your time at Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery.
Have a soft spot for hunger issues? Second Harvest would love to put you to work. Or, if you’re short on time, purchase a goat from Mercy Corps. That goat will be shipped to a family in one of their targeted countries and produce milk, wool, and baby goats. Talk about a sustainable gift!
Not only will volunteering make you feel all warm and fuzzy, it could lead to future employment opportunities in a field you already love. Plus, it looks great on your college applications.
So this year, try something new and celebrate Christmas in June. Watch “A Muppet Christmas Carol” and listen to “White Christmas.” Ask your parents to help you put together a holiday feast for dinner. And find some time to give back to our community. It’s the greatest gift you’ll ever give… or receive.
