12 Days of Christmas - Day 1

For the first post of Jenna's Gluten Free Kitchen's 12 Days of Christmas, I am not posting a recipe or even a craft. This first post is dedicated to giving back to our communities. I try my best to do my part in keeping my community nice by picking up litter, keeping my front porch swept, and decorating for the holidays... But to find more creative ideas on how I could give back in a more meaningful way, I had to do some research. Embarassingly, some of the items on this list should've come to me naturally because I see the need in my community everyday. I hope that this list inspires you as it has me and don't forget that this list applies all year round!

Volunteer at a local school, senior center, hospital or animal shelter. These places always need extra helping hands and the experience is mutually beneficial! Whether you are sharing a skill or experience, helping with daily tasks or just to lend an ear and laugh a bit, connecting with your neighbors (two-legged or otherwise!) in this way is priceless. You can never under-estimate the wonder of simple interactions between two beings. Working closely with the healthcare industry, I see the need for patients to have meaningful relationships everyday. The companionship for elderly people helps keep their mind sharp, gives them something to look forward to, and most importantly makes them feel needed. You don't necessarily have to have to have a special skill to help out, you can play cards, read aloud to residents, or even paint their nails. If you have an especially loving pet, you might consider asking if you can bring him/her in to socialize with the patients...I'm sure you already know the healing powers of your pooch's snuggles!

Give blood. This is one of the easiest things you could ever do to help someone. Blood banks are always in need of more. As the American Red Cross says, “Give the gift of life.” Find your local Red Cross Chapter and go from there. If you’re extra motivated, talk to your employer about becoming a corporate partner and organize a blood drive at work. My employer hosts quarterly blood drives making it convenient to give blood.

Handy-(wo)man? Painter? Super Friendly? Your local community theater could use your skills to contribute to their performances. Or your local community organization could use your help for fairs, parades, or other fund-raisers. Added bonus: you could make new friends!

Baking for your get together? Consider doubling your batch to share with an elderly neighbor, the local police station, or fire department. I plan on doubling my batch of Maple Bacon Pecan Brittle to take to my local fire department later this week.