Giving thanks by giving
#BeavertonAreaChamberofCommerce
- How do you express thankfulness?
- What are you thankful for?
- How do you show your appreciation?
For many, November is a time of traditions and giving thanks.
Traditions abound. Big family gatherings bring a wide range of emotions. Holiday travels begin. Favorite recipes bring smells and fond memories to the forefront.
Stores fill up with new signs, new ads, and new promotions to entice shoppers. Holiday music drifts in, seemingly earlier every year. And for sports enthusiasts, everyone’s favorite football team either brims with excitement or starts to think about next year. And we are encouraged to give thanks.
How do you express thankfulness?
You can craft handwritten cards and send them to friends and family. You can make small gifts or batches of treats to share with neighbors. You can show appreciation for the people around you with a simple gesture, like a heartfelt “thank you for being you.”
Another way to express thankfulness and appreciation is to reflect on the blessings you have received throughout your life, and pay those forward by helping others.
Here are just a few ideas for giving thanks by giving:
- Many faith-based organizations hold holiday food drives aimed at providing food and nourishment for our hungry neighbors.
- Schools and community centers may have clothing drives, where your unused sweaters, jackets and boots can be gifted to families in need.
- Local nonprofits can benefit from your time and talents in many ways – helping to host events, serve others, package goods, and more.
We are fortunate in Beaverton to have the Beaverton Resource Center. They provide a wide variety of services to local residents. If you are looking for a great way to show your appreciation, they have a host of opportunities to help out. You can learn more on their website.
Many other local organizations have opportunities for you to share your time and talents. There are many great ideas listed throughout each publication of the Beaverton Resource Guide. Plus, check your local library for other ideas.
If you already have a tradition of lending support to others, thank you. If you are looking to start a new tradition of lending a hand – great! You will be glad you did, and you will likely make new friends and connections along the way.
Our team at the Beaverton Area Chamber of Commerce are thankful to be able to work in and contribute to this wonderful community. Thanks to all of you for all you do to make Beaverton a great place to live, work, and play. We wish you all happy and healthy holidays and other traditions, whatever they might be.
By Rob Routhieaux, Director of Small Business Support & Development. For more information about how your business can be involved or sponsorship opportunities, email us at info@beaverton.org or call 503-644-0123.
