The holidays are a time when receiving everything on your list or giving that perfect gift can create a cheerful and memorable season; however, some go the extra mile to bring this cheer to those less fortunate. From volunteering at soup kitchens, to donating toys, to just offering one’s time, the holiday season seems to inspire charitable actions.

        The Kiwanis tree lot, located in front of the Hermosa Beach Playhouse, uses a holiday tradition to give back. This lot donates the proceeds from tree purchases to needy children throughout the season. Volunteers run the lot, helping customers choose the perfect tree, trim it down, and attach it to their cars. Purchasing a tree leaves one with the satisfaction of helping a child who needs it.
Another group that gives back during the holiday season is National Charity League. This year they are participating in a new philanthropy called Operation Homefront. Each Ticktocker class has collected gifts and food for military families who cannot be together during the holidays. Whitney Waxler says that this experience made her “feel great knowing that [they] help soldiers, but also their families who struggle with their absence.” Since the holidays are a time to be spent with loved ones, these girls and their mothers help bring holiday cheer to military families who can’t be together this season.

        Although many organizations host charitable projects, you do not have to be a part of one to help those in need. PV High Junior, Rorry O’Connor, used to volunteer at a soup kitchen, during the month of December, to offer a nice meal and a warm smile to those in need. This experience gave her “a new perspective on life,” and O’Connor claims that she no longer “takes things for granted.” After multiple visits to the soup kitchen, O’Connor actually “began to make friends with them, and admired their faith through such a difficult time.”

     Donating just a little time out of your life can make a world of difference in someone else’s. Whether you leave cookies for Santa or a warm meal for someone in need, this time of year is truly the season of giving.