“The only gifts that matter to others are the simple ones, the human ones, those of kindness, appreciation, friendship and LOVE,” famous author Brendon Buchard said. “Let us remember they want our true presence more than presents.”
The most vital aspect of the holiday season is giving back to those who may not be able to provide for themselves. Just an hour of time can make a substantial difference in the lives of many.
“Getting to see the impact that one person can make and the connections that come from that action really makes community service worth it,” junior Cecelia Chenore said. “I love being there in the moment. I love soup kitchens and key club parties. I just love interacting with the people I am helping.”
During the holiday season, individuals have a special kind of reverence for their ability to help others. Serving the community physically and mentally is a core part of the holiday season for many people.
“I find community service a great way to get involved with the community,” Key Club sponsor Mr. Lewandowski said.
Community service is beneficial for both the giver and the receiver. Those who give their time to community service are able to provide for those who need help, and they are often able to develop integral relationships with their fellow citizens and an overall deeper-rooted connection with the community as a whole.
“I love being able to make sure they know they are not alone, and I just enjoy bringing that hope and encouragement to the community,” Director of Operations for Phil’s Friends, Judy Earnshaw said. “My mom had cancer, and so did my father in law. I lost both of them and my best friend to cancer, so bringing hope and support is a goal very near and dear to my heart.”
The goal of Phil’s Friends is that exactly: to bring hope and support to cancer patients. Phil’s Friends, located in Crown Point, is one of many opportunities that Northwest Indiana citizens utilize to take a more influential role in their community. Phil’s Friends allows citizens to have a personal impact within their Crown Point community.
“Around Christmas, some families have difficulty providing Christmas gifts for their children. Gifting toys to children for some families could be difficult due to rising inflation,” reporter Zoe Wells said in her article “Ways to Give Back this Holiday Season.”
While giving time is a great way to deepen one’s connection with their community during the holiday season, it is also important to note the cu

ltural importance of gift giving during the holiday season. This cultural focus is the central idea of charities such as “Toys for Tots” and other important non-profit foundations as they attempt to provide all children with the whimsical holiday season they are exposed to through their young lives.
Furthermore, in his article

“Americans Are Skipping Christmas Gifts This Year,” Alexander Fabino reported on a retired couple by the names of James and Linda Foster have decided to forgo spending money on family presents, and are instead choosing to donate that money to those in need.
People have the inherent want to give to others, especially during the holiday season. James and Linda are not alone in their decision to begin donating instead of giving gifts, as many local Crown Point families also allocate a specific amount of funds towards helping a charity during the holiday season.
“I like to give love to the less fortunate,” sophomore Flourish Taiwo said. “Everyone wants to give them objects, but love is what they need the most.”
Regardless of one’s personal standing, giving through charities or just giving one’s time back to the community is a wonderful way to get closer to others this holiday season. The gift of giving one’s presence and support truly is able to make an astounding difference in the lives of many.