5 Ways to Give a Gift this Christmas Without Spending Money

Christmas is just two days away and the urge to spend and shop for Christmas gifts gets bigger and bigger as panic starts to set in because you haven't finished your shopping yet. Unfortunately, you can't say the same for your pocket book; even it's panicking.

Don't let that discourage you from giving something more valuable than anything money can buy - your time. Your children, grandparents and friends; all they want is more of your time and the best part is, it doesn't cost a thing.

This year, why not spread a little bit of that time around to one or more of these organizations in the Rockford area that could use a helping hand. Not only will you feel happier knowing that you've made a difference in someone else's life, you'll feel an amazing sense of purpose and accomplishment.

Thinkstock
Thinkstock
1
Wrap Gifts at Anderson Japanese Gardens
Anderson Japanese Gardens is looking for volunteers to wrap gifts on Saturdays and Sundays in December through the 18th from 10 am- 3 pm. They're also looking to add to their team of dedicated volunteers as a docent. Learn more at their Docent Open House today, Thursday, November 17 from 4-6 PM or call 815-229-9390 for more information.
Thinkstock
Thinkstock
2
Byron Civic Theater
The Byron Civic Theater is in need of volunteers for their upcoming performance of Its a Wonderful Life. Volunteers are needed backstage, onstage and front of house. Get more information here.
Thinkstock
Thinkstock
3
Northern Illinois Food Bank
The Northern Illinois Food Bank is always in need of volunteers. Because of your efforts with things like food sorting and packing, the food bank feeds more than 71,000 of our neighbors in 13 counties. Learn more and register to be a volunteer here.
Thinkstock
Thinkstock
4
Carpenter's Place
Help to rebuild the lives of the homeless in our community at Carpenter's Place. They offer several types of volunteer opportunities that allow you to interact with guests, help behind the scenes and even volunteer from home. Learn more here.
Thinkstock
Thinkstock
5
Rosie's Birthday Club
Jesus isn't the only one celebrating a birthday on Christmas; needy children in our area are also celebrating birthdays. According to Facebook, Rosie's Birthday Club "is an all volunteer organization that honors children in poverty on their special day, their birthday. Teaming with other organizations that serve children in poverty, we provide recognition, gifts and parties." You can make a child feel very special on not just one day, but two. Contact Rosie's for more information at RosiesBirthdayClub.org.

Filed Under: Christmas, Rockford

Categories: Articles, Lists