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LOUIS: The giving season problem

The holiday season is the favourite time of year for so many people, including myself. I used to be more of a summer fella, but I’ve since grown older, wiser and more susceptible to the “it’s-too-hot” grumpies. I’ve grown to like the colder months, even when the winter elements are determined to knock me off the road or otherwise freeze my limbs off.
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(File Photo)

The holiday season is the favourite time of year for so many people, including myself. I used to be more of a summer fella, but I’ve since grown older, wiser and more susceptible to the “it’s-too-hot” grumpies. I’ve grown to like the colder months, even when the winter elements are determined to knock me off the road or otherwise freeze my limbs off.

Every holiday season, Agassiz-Harrison gives generously of themselves to look after those in need within our community and beyond. There are several events as we draw closer to Christmas that gather food and other necessities for the less fortunate: Stuff the Cruiser, the Agassiz Fire Department Food Drive and the Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign come readily to mind.

These time-hounoured charitable traditions are great and should always be celebrated and supported as generously as possible. However, there is something else to consider during the season of giving: What about the other dozens of weeks per year?

There’s nothing wrong with getting caught up in the holiday spirit and giving a bit more generously than usual. It’s very easy to do so, and it feels great to give back during the holidays.It only really becomes an issue if that’s the only time we are generous with our excess resources.

And I get it. Times are hard, and it’s not always easy to give of ourselves. But if it hasn’t crossed your mind before, it may be time to take a look at a more balanced approach of giving throughout the year.

I’m not saying you need to go hog-wild with holiday-style giving across the remaining 11 months of the year (however, if you can, you probably should). What I’m saying is if it’s within your means to do so, I suggest setting aside a little bit each month to give back to the organization or organizations of your choice. It doesn’t have to be much; a lot of little bits can add up fast.

Cash donations are great, but please also check in with your charity of choice to see what specific items they may need and when they need them. If you don’t have the resources to give cash or other items, you are sure to have talents, knowledge and maybe even some time to volunteer to give back to your community.

Again, please don’t misunderstand. The holiday season is a great time to give back. However, it’s important not to forget the rest of the year as well.

The holidays should not serve as the only time we should give back. It should serve as a reminder that there is always a need to fill and always a way you can help. It should bring to light some opportunities to give back in ways you may not have considered before.

Agassiz-Harrison has no shortage of generous folks; I think the recent years of natural disasters has more than demonstrated that. I’d like to encourage you to keep up the amazing work you’re already doing – all throughout the year.