10 good deeds you can do this holiday season

We’ve rounded up 10 good deeds to get you started.

1. Try a random act of kindness or pay one forward

Random acts of kindness are simple gestures that can brighten someone's day. Try leaving a kind note for a co-worker, paying for the person behind you in line, or helping carry groceries for an elderly person. These acts may seem small, but they can have a significant impact because they’ll motivate others to do the same.  

2. Support your community

Volunteering or donating to important causes can be a rewarding way to foster positive change in your community. Find a cause that aligns with your values and reach out to local non-profit organizations, animal shelters, or charities to inquire about volunteer opportunities. If you’re pressed for time, consider a monetary donation.  

3. Organize a toy drive

Organizing a toy drive can be a fulfilling way to spread joy and support families in need. Start by identifying the cause or organization you want to assist, like a local children's hospital, or a non-profit that supports underprivileged families. From there, create promotional materials like flyers or social media posts to encourage others to contribute. You can also ask local churches, grocery stores and community centres to set up collection boxes. Just be sure to provide everyone with a little guidance about the types of toys needed for your specific cause.  

4. Pay a visit to a nursing home

Visiting nursing home residents is an easy and meaningful way to bring them joy and much-needed companionship. Start by reaching out to a local facility to express your interest and discuss available opportunities. Many homes welcome volunteers for activities like reading to residents, playing games, or simply spending time chatting and listening to their stories, so don’t hesitate to suggest an activity that you’re most comfortable with.  

5. Mentor someone

Young people are often looking for academic or professional guidance, so why not take some time to share your knowledge and advice? Start by identifying your area or field of expertise and then reach out to local organizations, schools, or community centres that offer mentoring programs to express your interest.

6. Help your neighbour

Being a caring and considerate neighbour can really make a difference in someone’s life, so try to offer a helping hand when you can. Maybe you can assist your neighbour with yard work, offer to pick up groceries, take their trash to the curb, or check in on them regularly, especially if they are elderly or live alone, to see if they need any support.  

7. Donate food or clothing

Donating food or clothing helps those in need and makes a positive impact in your community. To donate food, identify local food banks, shelters, or community organizations that accept food donations and inquire about their specific needs and any guidelines for donations. To donate clothing, look for local shelters or organizations that distribute clothing to those in need and check if they have any specific donation requirements before you drop off items.

8. Cook for someone

Cooking a meal for someone you care about is a simple but powerful way to express how much you value their well-being and happiness. So, whether you choose to cook for a parent, a busy family member, or a friend you haven’t been able to catch up with in a while, find a time that suits everyone’s schedule, make a commitment, and enjoy the process.  

9. Donate blood

Donating blood is a good deed that can save lives and help people undergoing surgeries, facing emergencies, or battling various medical conditions. If you’re not sure when or where the nearest blood drive is in your community, visit the Canadian Blood Services website to find a location that’s close to you and make an appointment today.

10. Spread the love

Spreading love and joy is a beautiful way to make a positive impact on the world around you. To do so, you can participate in community events, volunteer for local causes, or organize initiatives that promote positivity. Or, if you’re tight on time, consider sharing uplifting and inspirational messages through social media or writing handwritten notes to brighten someone's day. Remember: leading by example can create a ripple effect and inspire others to do the same!

The holidays can be a busy and stressful season for all of us, but especially for those who are struggling, so try to carve out a bit of time for a simple act of kindness. We bet you’ll be surprised at how much one small deed can positively impact both you and your community! Plus, while you’re at it, try to take a moment to ensure you and your family are also properly protected with the right insurance coverage. And remember: if you have questions, we’re always here to help.