One simple act of kindness can cause a ripple effect that can have an impact on a potentially infinite number of people. The acts do not need to be grandiose or expensive. Simply showing a bit of thoughtfulness toward other people can make a world of difference in their lives and the people around them. Here are ten simple acts of kindness that can help you spread holiday joy to the masses.
“Purchase and donate dog and cat food for pets in need.”
“Send a card or a care package to a soldier overseas.”
“When you buy gifts from one of 1,700 participating online retailers, you can use iGive to have that retailer donate money to your favorite charity (again, at no cost to you). This includes major retailers like Target, Walmart, Bed Bath & Beyond, and others.”
“Pay for someone’s groceries behind you in line.”
“Pay for the lunch of people behind you at a fast food restaurant or behind you in the drive thru.”
“Leave a gift or letter of appreciation for your mailman.”
“Donate nonperishables to your local food bank.”
“Donate a pair of new pajamas for foster kids.”
“Bake some cookies and drop them off at places where people have to work on Christmas — hospitals, firehouses, police stations, subway stops, etc.”
“Random acts of kindness don’t have to cost a lot of time or money. “Paying it forward evolves not by the amount or nature of the gift, but simply by the habit of giving,” says Nicole Bouchard Boles, author of the bestselling book How to Be an Everyday Philanthropist. For instance, you could buy a couple of rolls of quarters and leave them at the laundromat for the next person to use.”
