Today was not a normal day for me. It was unique, but in a good way.

I spent a few hours impacting nearly 10,000 lives by making sure 2,500 local families will have a warm meal on Thanksgiving Day.

Eleven of my co-workers and I volunteered at the Midwest Food Bank, partnering with Home Sweet Home Ministries and many local food pantries, to pack boxes full of the traditional Thanksgiving Day fixings: corn, green beans, cranberries, potatoes, gravy mix, stuffing, and cookies.

This coming Saturday, the Midwest Food Bank will have families literally drive through (without leaving their cars) to receive a packed box, along with a fresh turkey, for them to take home.

It’s heartbreaking and very humbling to hear of such need — 2,500 families; nearly 10,000 individuals?! Yet, I left with a heart full of gratitude, a sense of “good” in the world, and a powerful reminder that we are supposed to be the hands and feet of Jesus on this earth.

It was wonderful to know that our simple actions, and such a small amount of our time, will positively impact so many families and make a difference in their lives.

And more than just ensuring they will have food to eat, maybe our actions will ensure that families will gather around a table together. Maybe our actions will ensure that families will make special holiday memories. Who knows?

Now, I’m not sharing this to say, “Look at how great I am. I volunteered.”

I share it because it’s a perfect example of intentionally taking action to do something that benefitted myself and others.

I share it to inspire you to intentionally find ways you can give back, too. Giving with a generous heart because you want to, rather than giving out of a sense of obligation, duty, or a feeling of guilt. (Which by the way, if this is where you are – I’ve been there before, too.)

The holidays typically bring out generous spirits, giving hearts, and donations of our time, money and talents. It’s an opportunity to selflessly serve others and help those in need.

There are tons of ways to get involved. I’m guessing many of you have already found opportunities to give back. It’s hard not to be aware of needs in our communities this time of year.

Churches and organizations have toy, coat, and food drives with giving trees. Volunteers are all over town ringing bells raising money for the Salvation Army. Toys for Tots is a popular program at the malls and shopping centers. Soup pantries are open and serving warm meals to the homeless. And on and on.

So, what are you doing? How are you getting involved? What are your favorite ways to volunteer – either during the holidays or throughout the year? I’d love to hear your stories of volunteerism.

Yours intentionally, Amanda