The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others ~ Mahatma Gandhi
Almost as soon as we put away the Halloween costumes, my children instinctively know that Christmas isn’t far behind. Perhaps it’s the stores that start displaying holiday decorations or the commercials on television announcing the latest must-have toys. Regardless, I already have quite the list going for each of my children who have had their eye on LEGOS and princesses!
But even at 2 and 5, I am trying to instill within them the true meaning of this season. I want them to have open hearts and realize that the amount of joy they receive when they open that present on Christmas Day can’t surpass the amount of joy they will feel when they give of themselves. Last year, we purchased several toys and then donated them together as a family. To be honest, my son wasn’t happy about it when we first presented the idea to him. But as I explained to him why we were doing this…that there are little boys and girls who may not have any toys to open on Christmas…I began to see a glimpse of understanding. We will do it again this year, and every year, so that my children have a true understanding of the holiday season.
My list this year is actually quite short and mostly a list of necessity…things that will make it easier for me to do what I do. I will spend more time and effort planning gifts for others because that is one of the things I really look forward to during this time of year.
This Fall, I’ve written quite a bit about our nation’s hunger problem. It is a passion close to my heart and one I’ve been involved with for years. This season, Walmart will give $1.5 million through their 12 Days of Giving campaign to local nonprofit organizations. That money will help with our nation’s hunger epidemic and provide basic items like shelter, baby formula, diapers, coats, and cold-weather clothing to those in need. With the East Coast still trying to recover from Hurricane Sandy, I imagine there are many who could benefit from Walmart’s generosity.
Do you know a local nonprofit who should receive some of this funding? Simply nominated them via Walmart’s Facebook page through November 18th. Be sure to have the nonprofit’s name, contact information, website, and how that organization helps the community available. On December 10th, Walmart will launch it’s 12 Days of Giving campaign, announcing funding to the winning non-profits that were nominated via Facebook.
This is the second year of Walmart’s 12 Days of Giving Campaign and stories from the winners are featured on their Facebook page. Like Philadelphia’s Cradles to Crayons Giving Factory which received a $20,000 grant to continue to provide clothing, shoes, books, toys, school supplies, baby supplies and safety equipment to disadvantaged children.
To nominate an organization, simply visit Walmart’s Facebook page. And for more informattino about how Walmart is helping give back this season, visit Walmart.com/LiveBetter and Foundation.Walmart.Com.
I participate in the Walmart Moms program and am compensated for my time and honest opinions.
- Discover Luxury at Sonesta Irvine: Your Ideal Staycation - August 8, 2024
- CHOC Walk Returns to the Disneyland Resort – Special Events and Ways to Support - June 28, 2023
- Beastly Ball Returns to the Los Angeles Zoo - May 8, 2023
Leave a Reply