A Mexican legend tells the story of a child who picked some weeds at the roadside to give to Baby Jesus on Christmas Eve, because he could not afford a gift. This humble gift given in love was acceptable in God's eyes, and when it was brought into the church it blossomed into red and green flowers - a poinsettia and a Christmas miracle.
(Source: Wikipedia)



You want to reach out and give back, but at the end of the month you find yourself with a measly $84.72 in your account after rent, groceries, and car payment. Can you make someone's holiday a little more special, even when you are struggling to make ends meet?

Today we finish our 3-part series on charitable giving, focusing on ways you can help without spending money.

Donate

*Give a worthy cause the gift of your time and volunteer! Soup kitchens, food and toy drives, and Habitat for Humanity are just a few places that are looking for extra help in many ways.

*Want to clear out some space in your closet? Donate your gently used clothes, books, dishes, and furniture to a local charity such as Goodwill. Go one step further and organize a clothing drive in your apartment building or neighborhood. MissChickie explains how she made this a success now three years running!

*Think about donating blood or placing your name on a living donor's list (e.g. bone marrow, etc.). Challenge friends and family members to do the same - hey, you may need the support if you're queasy about needles!

Give some holiday cheer

*Call up some friends and go caroling at a retirement home! Spend some time playing checkers, eating cookies, or just listening. Many elderly people feel alone during the holidays and you may be the only visit they get. Call the events coordinator at the home first to set up a convenient time.

*Costume up, grab some books and games, and head over to the pediatrics ward at your local hospital. Call the hospital administrator to set this up, as they probably wouldn't appreciate a surprise visit for the sake of their patients.

*Write your grandparents a proper letter; their generation appreciates these things more than you might realize.

*Cook a proper dinner for a new mom or dad in your family or circle of friends. Bring it to their home, and if it's convenient stick around for a visit. They may be starving for adult conversation!

Do you have any fun and inexpensive ideas? Share them here! We at ChickAdvisor want to encourage you to do something extra this year and make a difference in someone's life. It might be a small thing for you to give, but huge for the person on the receiving end.