Now that the election is over, our focus is on the holidays before us … Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukah, Kwaanza, New Year’s. The long stretch between the last week of November and the end of the year is filled with parties, special events, delicious food, family gatherings and gift exchanges. For some, it is, as the old song says, “the most wonderful time of the year”.  

Despite the merriment, I do have a pet peeve with this season. Why do people feel an obligation to be grateful and generous during the final six weeks of the year?

Don’t get me wrong, working with a non-profit for over fifteen years, I am glad there is an end-of–the-year surge in giving to charities as well as an increase in volunteers. However, what I’m advocating is that we live to give all year long.  

This holiday season, I challenge you to adopt a project or organization with which you can be involved long-term. Instead of serving food at the homeless shelter only on Thanksgiving Day, commit to serving once a month. Instead of just putting a toy in a barrel, volunteer to tutor at a community center once a week for the remainder of the school year.  

Get to know names and faces. Build relationship. Although the one-time projects have impact, transformation occurs over time.