The holiday season is well underway. Black Friday is already this week and that means it will be time to take advantage of all the deals and mark things off your gift list. But no one wants to sacrifice time with their loved ones and make the joy of the season about material things!

So, this Black Friday, we’re encouraging you to think about doing something other than shopping, something good, something worthwhile. After all, Cyber Monday will still be here after the weekend and you can shop those deals from the comfort of your own home, and even better, it will be after knowing you gave back!

Key Takeaways:

• Discover ideas to make a difference this holiday season and give back to the community or those in need.
• Learn how to make meaningful connections with loved ones during the holidays.
• Make this Black Friday about family and giving to those in need rather than shopping.

Table of Contents:

1. Make Lunches for the Holiday Shift Workers
2. Send Holiday Cards to Soldiers
3. Donate to Those in Need
4. Visit a Nursing Home
5. Start Decorating for the Next Holiday
6. Have a Family Photoshoot

Check out our list of six things you can do instead of going Black Friday shopping this year: 

Bring Lunches for Holiday Shift Workers

Many jobs, especially first responders like police officers and firefighters, require their employees to work on Thanksgiving and Black Friday. What better way to show your appreciation than packing up some turkey sandwiches and pumpkin pie and heading to the station to share your treats! You can pick up some cookies or gift baskets, maybe coffees for everyone, and spread the holiday cheer. Let shift workers know you appreciate their service and make an impact this Black Friday.

Send Holiday Cards to Soldiers

The holiday season is a time to express what you’re grateful for. Why not express some thanks to the soldiers overseas who sacrifice so much for our country? Show your appreciation by writing letters to them, maybe even including them in a care package. Get your kids involved and ask them to draw pictures expressing their gratitude. You can visit https://amillionthanks.org for more information on how to start your letter and where to find your local drop off center. Soldiers may struggle during the holidays especially, being away from home and loved ones, and maybe even don’t have family to return to. Help them feel the love this holiday with a special note!

Donate to Those in Need

It’s a time to be thankful but it’s also a time to give back. This Black Friday instead of heading to the mall and splurging or visiting all your favorite websites to shop, try giving back! Collect some canned foods and donate it to your local food bank. Clean out your closet and donate any clothes to your local American Red Cross or Salvation Army. You can even purchase something beforehand simply for the purpose of donating it if you feel able. This is a great way to spread holiday cheer and make a difference.

Visit a Nursing Home

Feel like getting out of the house and having a positive impact on someone in the community? Take a trip to your local nursing home. Call ahead and ask about their visiting hours and let them know how many people will be joining you. Make some holiday cards beforehand, maybe bring a gift, sing some holiday carols or simply have a chat and learn about someone’s life. This will be sure to bring some extra holiday cheer to the residents, especially those who may not get to see loved ones for the holidays.

Start Decorating for the Next Holiday

Now that Thanksgiving and the fall holidays will be officially over, it’s a good time to start decorating for the next holiday! Get the family to swap all of the Thanksgiving decorations for the December holiday décor. This is a great way to engage in fun family time and bond and connect while being creative and festive.

Have a Family Photoshoot

It’s always nice having family in town for the holidays – so make sure to document it! This is the perfect opportunity to have a family photoshoot. Have everyone gather up in the living room or create a picturesque autumn setting in the backyard. Set up the camera timer on your phone or digital camera. Take a few candid shots or silly pictures too! You’ll have your memories documented and maybe even get the perfect picture for your holiday card.

This holiday season, put the focus on family time and giving back. There will still be time to claim holiday savings before the end of the year, so don’t let it be the focus. Be in the moment and make a difference this year!