Why Giving Back is Important Around the Holidays
Holidays are a time to give thanks for all that you have, and what better way to do this than by giving back to those around you?
Charities exist is to provide a crucial need that is being unfilled, whether it be for food, for shelter, for medicine, or for other necessities. When you donate money, you are helping someone who is less fortunate have a better chance at living a happy and fulfilling life. That person is someone’s daughter, someone’s mother, someone’s son, or someone’s father. That person could be your neighbor, your co-worker, or your friend. Giving is a selfless act that greatly benefits the community in which you live. It can help feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and shelter those without homes. It can help mend a tired and broken spirit.
They say it’s better to give than to receive, but is it really? Believe it or not, charitable donations can lead to improved physical and mental health. According to a study by Harvard professor Michael Norton, giving money to someone else was found to make a person happier than if they were to spend it on themselves.
A different study conducted in 2006 found that participants who gave of themselves, whether it be through charitable donations or charitable acts, had lower blood pressure than those who were not involved in any charitable work.
In 2007, a study on the benefits of giving showed that those who volunteer benefit from improved heart health overall, not just in regards to blood pressure, experiencing a lower chance of suffering from heart disease when compared to people who do not volunteer. Recently, a 2013 study even found that charitable work can increase longevity. Participants of this study who engaged in volunteer work outlived those who abstained from volunteering by an average of 22%!
The mission of Maot Chitim is not only to provide holiday food for those less fortunate than ourselves, but to offer an opportunity to give of oneself as well. We provide hands-on volunteer experiences for all ages. Whether it be building boxes, packing food, delivering boxes, or donating dollars so there is food to provide, we are there for you. Please contact us or visit our website for more information on opportunities to give back during the holidays.