As we celebrate the many holidays that come with the winter months, we can enjoy and plot and scheme for the coming year. By that, we mean we can observe and participate in the many good things happening and plan for how we can increase our participation for the coming year. Hold tight to the heartwarming feelings experienced as children receive gifts, seniors eat hot meals, and those who are cold huddle with extra blankets and new socks. We can participate in these activities now, and we can plot and scheme – we mean plan – for how to increase the care we extend to our neighbors, known and unknown.
What to do today.
First, there’s the obvious. Start setting aside funds and resources to share with others this time next year. It’s always hard to “find the money,” but allocating funds throughout the year to share during the year-end can make next year’s giving easier. As nonprofits, we can observe what our partners are doing and consider how we can help them. Are they hosting meals? Paying electricity bills for those who may be cut off? Observe now and talk with community leaders early next year to explore how to add value. This is true for each of us as individuals and families as well. Watch, participate, ask questions, and get involved going forward.
There are other ways to help out now – and next year. These include asking staff, board members, and volunteers to help other groups deliver food, toys, clothing, and more during the holidays. Those who have access to buses and minivans can make a big difference when it comes to collecting toys, food, clothing, and blankets for distribution. The front porch – for those who are homeowners – or the office, if you are a nonprofit, can become an information center for people who are looking to donate, get involved, and give, and know who is doing what. And we all know that our social media accounts are the new “front porch.” We can all share what is going on in our community.
When thinking about next year, there may be more resources to share when there’s more time to plan. Perhaps you’ll decide on a special communication to your constituency to encourage giving to a community-wide program. Or maybe you’ll advocate for longer-term solutions such as temporary housing, nutrition programs. As individuals, families, faith organizations, and nonprofits of every stripe, we can observe and participate in what others do well and make a plan to join with them in the coming year.
Here are our closing thoughts. If they sound like they are from a Hallmark card, it’s because they are: “Every time a hand reaches out to help … that is Christmas. Every time a person chooses peace … that is Christmas. Every time we forget our differences and remember the love that connects us … that is Christmas.”
© 2025 Mel and Pearl Shaw, authors of “Prerequisites for Fundraising Success.” We provide fundraising counsel to higher education, nonprofits, and philanthropy. Video conferencing always available. Visit www.saadandshaw.com.
