A Guide on How to Make Everyone’s Holiday Season Brighter

The holiday season is one of the most magical times of the year. There are countless opportunities for connecting with community and family. At OM, especially, solidarity and coming together are key values and aspects of our school, and everything associated with it. It’s the perfect time to get involved and connect with others, often with people you don’t usually. So, how can you get involved? It’s simple; there are a variety of events and ways to help serve others and bring everyone some holiday cheer.

Volunteering! Giving back to the community is not just about money – but your time as well. This includes volunteering at food banks, soup kitchens, and shelters. Here at OM, our food pantry distributes to the community every last Wednesday of the month. Anyone can come and help out. 

Gift giving! Countless children in the community spend the holidays without receiving anything. You can be the one to make their holidays feel all the more special. Various programs provide toys and other essential items to families in need through donations from community members. At any local Walmart, you can participate in The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program. This allows you to access children’s Christmas wishlists, and you can either shop online or in stores for them. Here at OM, the JROTC is running a holiday toy drive where anyone can donate unwrapped toys to children in need, and drop them off locations spread across the building. 

Building a stronger community. Kindness shouldn’t be subjective or specifically directed towards the people we think are in need of it. Everyone is deserving of a little kindness, and even a small act can brighten someone’s day. This could be paying for someone in a coffee shop or in a drive-through, complimenting someone, or showing your gratitude for someone’s work, especially essential workers who spend their holidays helping others. Fostering stronger connections can help us build a community around us that is appreciative and willing to support others and their needs. 

Pay it forward. Although the holidays can serve as an inspiration for you to get out and help others, it shouldn’t be the only time to do it. Be a true advocate and assist people even when uncalled for. Educate yourself in programs around your area that aid in community engagement and help give back to others all throughout the year. 

So, let’s make this holiday season a memorable one for all of us in the OM community!