Wouldn’t it be nice if every season were dubbed the season of giving? If, instead of seasonal boxes or bags awaiting the harried donations from frazzled shoppers, these boxes and barrels were available year-round? Sure, some places do such things all year; one of my favorite local bookstores keeps a shoe donation box outside all year. It would rock, though, if everyone would do it throughout the seasons.

All complaints aside, if you have something to give this holiday season—whether it be money, goods, time, or whatever—be sure to step up to the plate when you can. It doesn’t have to be big; it doesn’t even have to be time-consuming. A few seconds of time is all it takes to help make a difference in someone’s life. Try one of these quick ideas:

• Buy an extra toy or stocking stuffer and drop it off in the Toys for Tots box. You don’t even have to think about it—just get two of the jump ropes, jacks, or whatever other fun small items you’ll be putting in your kids’ stockings. We have a local dollar store that does this every year, and a few dollars can go a long way in such a place.
• Drop off canned or dry goods when you’re shopping, going to the library, seeing a movie, or wherever they are holding a drive for items needed in the community. All it takes is remembering to grab a little something from the pantry and taking it along with you.  
• Don’t toss your discards when you clean house. Instead, hold onto any blankets, pillows, pots, toys, and other items and drop them off at the Goodwill, Salvation Army, or other secondhand shop—or schedule a pickup right from your home. All you have to do is put the items on your porch and you’re done!
• Either donate all of your spare change after each shopping trip to whatever bell ringer is at the entrance, or save it all up and make one large donation to your favorite charity. Many restaurants, banks, and stores area also hosting charity events where you can donate a dollar as well; be sure to partake in these if you can.
• Give in someone’s name as a holiday present. Many people would rather have this than anything else, and most charities will send a card or email telling the recipient about his or her donation. Some will even include a certificate or small toy/commemorative item, depending on the amount of the donation.