As the holiday season approaches, it is normal to create a list of gifts you would like to receive, or of things you need, to give to your loved ones. It is exciting, no matter how old you get, to wake up and spend that time with your family; opening gifts and simply being around the ones you love.

Everyone gets excited about receiving gifts but it is important to keep those who are not as fortunate in your mind during the holidays. It is important to give back during the holiday season, even if it is not huge, something that seems small to you could completely brighten someone else’s day. It does not have to be a big process to give back.

There are so many gift drives and donation areas throughout the holiday season. On Shippensburg University campus, there are tons of ways to give back. On the second floor of the Ceddia Union Building (CUB) there is a bin to put toy donations. Career and Community Engagement Center (CCEC), located on the first floor, has a bin outside their entrance for people to donate items as well. Along with that, there are several groups on campus such as Greek Life and academic clubs, who will be raising money for their philanthropy causes up until winter break.

Nationally, there are ways to make a difference this holiday season. Usnews.com generated a list of ways you can give back this holiday season. These include: sending holiday cards to our deployed military and veterans, donating to local food banks, volunteering at a local shelter, donate clothes and other items to goodwill or the Salvation Army, sponsor a family which you will purchase gifts for and purchase toys to donate to Toys for Tots.

There are more ways than those to give back during such a wonderful time of the year. It only takes something small to do your part and make a huge difference. So while you are enjoying this time of year with your loved ones, keep those in mind who are less fortunate and remember to give back.

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