Tis’ the season of giving.  The problem this year is, no one has any money to give.  I could go on a rant about lost jobs and a terrible economy, but I have read enough of that, and I am ready to start looking at the glass half full.

I would also like to be clear about something, if you have the money to give, then absolutely donate it to your charity of choice, they are struggling as much, if not worse then everyone else right now.  However, if this year you cannot afford the donation, these are some ideas for how to give in other ways.

Give a gift (or get the whole office to)!
Open those storage closets and take out a toy that your aunt gave you last year even though you stopped playing with toys 10 years ago.  Grab the candle holders or coffee mugs that you got last year and never used.  Then bring them to your local gift center, and they will distribute them to the less fortunate.

If you cannot find anything in the storage closets don’t fret…  If you office has a Secret Santa every year you should put a new spin on it.  Everyone should go through the fun part of buying a gift, but instead of keeping the gifts, go together as an office and donate them to people who perhaps just lost their jobs.  If your office doesn’t have a Secret Santa, maybe this would be a good way to start a new tradition.

Give your time
I realize time is difficult to come by, but it is not impossible to find.  Grab your co-workers, your friends, or your family and donate your time to benefit someone else.  There are volunteers needed during the holiday season, they aren’t difficult to find but are usually locally based, so put in a Google search and find your local shelters.

Adopt a pet
This may seem a little off topic, but as family budgets are cut, animals are an expense that some people cut out first.  You have to remember that animals are very important, they can cheer you up when your down and they make a great present for a child, or a significant other, a good idea when money is tight.  It will cost you about $90, but it is a great gift idea if you know you are able to care for the animal.

A few other ideas:

• Donate Food
• Give Blood
• Donate Clothes

I hope everyone takes the time to give something this Holiday season, and if you have any other ideas, please let me know!