The holidays is a fantastic opportunity for us to give back to the community. Instead of hosting your annual office potluck, dedicate a day before the actual holiday to head out with coworkers to take part in some selfless and charitable thanksgiving ideas.

Get creative, get include your team excited to give back, and then get home to spend with your family!

Here are 7 unique, fun, and selfless holiday ideas for companies who would like to give back this holiday.

1. Charity Baskets

Have your teams sign up to put together baskets for families in need on Christmas. Baskets will include enough food for a family of four, including a turkey and other perishable items, along with decorations, and basic necessities. Find your local shelter online through a little research. 

2. Support the Troops

Don’t let the troops have a thanksgiving without smiles—get involved and give back to our veterans and current servicemen and women. This doesn’t have to be a burden on your bottom line. You can keep it simple with low-cost, hand-made holiday cards thanking our troops for their services. Another way to help is to give a generous donation through a number of charitable websites. Some websites offer a choice to support the families of troops, injured or disabled veterans, or individuals currently serving. Check out Operation Gratitude— a well-known program designed to help troops who are currently serving. You can also visit Soldiers Angels if you are interested in giving back to disabled or injured veterans.

3. Find Your Local Food Bank

If you are looking to donate food this holiday season, start by visiting Feeding America and type in your zip code to locate your local food bank. Feeding America is dedicated to reduce hunger year-round, but the holidays are always a nice time to give back. 

4. Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign

The Salvation Army has maintained one of the most notable and successful charity campaigns—The Red Kettle Campaign which began in 1891. Ever seen volunteers outside a local grocery store holding that iconic red bell during the holidays? That’s the Red Kettle Campaign! Although they maintain their humble roots by campaigning out in the community, it is easier than ever to donate to the cause. Money received is spent on year round social services, shelter and food during the holidays and gifts and thanks for deserving families in need.

5. Volunteer at an Animal Shelter

Do you love animals? Donating to animal shelters may be the perfect fi for you. Let's not forget our fur friends. Shelters accept donations of food, toys, beds, etc. but you can also give a  donation that will be put towards healthcare and happiness. Check out Karma Rescue, The Animal Rescue Site, or Pet Finder to give your donations this holiday season.

6. Visit a Senior Center

Holidays can be an especially emotional time for people who have lost family members or close friends in their life. Give back to the elderly in person at your local senior home, or online through the Senior Services Association. Consider visiting a senior center, where a number of elderly patients, unfortunately, do not have families. Get together to volunteer at a senior center—put together a potluck, give them cards of thanks, and most importantly, spend a bit of time with someone who may need it more than you know.

We hope this inspires you to give back during this winter season!