'Tis the Season

Well, ’tisn’t the season quite yet...but just because the sidewalk Santas haven't starting ringing their bells doesn’t mean it's too early to get in the season of giving. In just a few weeks you’ll be busy planning for the upcoming holidays and it will be even harder to think about sparing some time (or money) for those a little less fortunate.

Today, explore your options and schedule time this month to give back. Start with a site like Volunteermatch.org, which finds places and events that match your location and interests. You can also volunteer your time as an online mentor through sites like Vmentor.com, which links you with teens in foster care to help them develop relationships with caring adults, Icouldbe.org, a mentoring program to help at-risk teens make good career choices and MentorNet.net, which connects you with young college students interested in math, science, technology and engineering, from groups typically underrepresented in those fields.

There is no wrong way or “better way” to give back. Donate your time, donate your money or even write a letter to your local politician about the way drivers are blowing past school bus stop signs (seriously, what's with those guys?)--whatever you do, do something. Giving back is a wonderful way to help others be happier and help yourself, too.