A director with the WVU Center for Community Engagement says nothing is too small to make a difference when it comes to giving during the holiday season and all year. (WVU Photo)
A West Virginia University expert says those looking to give back this holiday season — or at any other time of the year — have many meaningful options.
Whitney Glotfelty, director of community-based learning at the WVU Center for Community Engagement, is sharing tips on how to tap into your “time, talents and treasures” during the holidays and all seasons.
Quotes:
“Many nonprofits have holiday-specific needs, such as assembling care kits, donating winter clothing, contributing to toy or food drives, or writing cards for seniors, veterans, or hospital patients. Families can also volunteer together at community meals, adopt a local family’s wish list, or support shelters and programs with high-need items like hygiene supplies or warm blankets.
“This season, try to make room in your home by giving first. There are many great ways to incorporate giving into your family’s holiday traditions. A reverse advent calendar, where instead of receiving an item, you choose one item to donate each day, or some families use a box they received an item in to create a ‘giving box’ filled with items to donate to someone in need. These models not only embed service into holiday routines, but also are great ways for every family member to be involved.
“Use the holidays as a reflection point, not a one-time burst of generosity. This season naturally prompts people to think about gratitude, connection and community, but it’s important to remember that community needs don’t begin or end this holiday season. I encourage people to see the holidays as a time to pause and ask: ‘What issues matter most to me and my family? Who in our community could we help? What strengths or resources do we have that could help?’ This could be time, skills, relationships or financial support. Talk about where you can be intentional about contributing during the coming year. This helps shift the mindset from seasonal service to sustained service.
“Give nonprofits the gift they need most, consistency. While I would never discourage someone from volunteering at any time, many nonprofits see a sharp drop-off after the start of the new year. Recurring volunteering or donations, staying connected through newsletters or volunteer platforms, and following through on commitments make the biggest difference. Consistent support helps nonprofits serve our communities predictably and sustainably.
“Put service on the calendar now. Life gets busy, and volunteering is often the first thing we drop when schedules fill up. Pre-scheduling a volunteer shift, planning meeting, or even days to donate items means you’re far more likely to follow through. It can also help nonprofits plan ahead and ensure they have the support they need during slower seasons.
“I’m a firm believer that everyone has something to contribute. We often use the term ‘time, talent, and treasure’ to think through the spectrum of ways one can serve. Nothing is too small to make a difference.” — Whitney Glotfelty, director of community-based learning, WVU Center for Community Engagement
West Virginia University experts can provide commentary, insights and opinions on various news topics. Search for an expert by name, title, area of expertise, or college/school/department in the Experts Database at WVUToday.
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an/12/11/25
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