5 After 5, Ways to give to others at Christmastime

The holidays are a popular time to share with others. How many groups on this list have you heard of?



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It's time for another round of 5 After 5!  In case you missed it, last week's list was top Christmas wish list items for grown-ups and if you're new to this series, you can read more about it here - then catch up on all the old editions here.


Today I've got my list of 5 to share, as well as next week's topic for you to stew about over the upcoming days.


And this series is a link party, so be sure to scroll down and join in all the fun with us this week!




List 5 ways to give to others at Christmastime


The spirit of giving abounds this time of year, prompting many people to give to others along with all the shopping for their friends and family.

Here are five ways to help others this season:


1.  RAK (Random Acts of Kindness)


A search of this topic will produce a plethora of ways to touch another life in an everyday way. 

Whether it's paying the toll or food bill of the person in the car behind you, delivering baked goodies to a shut-in neighbor, or enjoying the antics of the Blessing Buddies or Kindness Elves, it's always a winning idea to spread a little extra kindness around.

2.  Operation Christmas Child


How creative can you get packing a shoebox full of treats for a child somewhere out there in the world?

We think it's a fun challenge to accept and love searching for just the right goodies (practical and fun!) to send off to the opposite side of the globe.


3.  Angel Tree


Imagine all the children out there with parents in prison. They often miss out on normal childhood events like Santa's visit.

This organization matches you up with these kids and allows you to bless them in a special way.


4.  Compassion International


Interested in developing a relationship with a child that you help this season? By "adopting" a special little someone from somewhere around the world, you not only help provide for important needs throughout the year, but have the chance to correspond with him or her as well!

It's extra-fun to adopt children with birthdays close to those of your own children -- when your kids get old enough, they can take over the pen pal duties!


5.  Heifer International



I have a long-running joke with a friend from Junior High about goats and one year my mom "gave" us both a goat through this organization for Christmas.

I love how this group provides for families around the world with daily needs (like milk and eggs from goats, cows and chickens)!




For next week:


Ways to teach kids the meaning of Christmas


If you've been hanging around here the past few days, you'll probably be able to guess at a few of the ideas on my list, but I'm really excited to see what you have to share!



That's right, every post will be read, pinned and tweeted!  

Every Saturday, just stop by one of our blogs to add your own list of five, then pop over and read as many other posts as you're able to each week - treat it like a true party and really mix it up and mingle with our fun little community!

The rules are simple:  just write your own list following the prompt each week (feel free to interpret it loosely - or in a unique way!), follow both of the hosts on the social media channel of your choice, and then get into the spirit of the party by grabbing your favorite beverage or snack and reading the lists of the other party-goers.



Your Hosts:

Lisa, at Syncopated MamaFacebook // Twitter // Pinterest // Google+ // Bloglovin'
Samantha, at Motivated DaysTwitter // Pinterest // Google+ 



What's your list?  I'd love to hear!  Either leave a comment below or email me at lisahealy (at) outlook (dot) com.

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