The holiday season often inspires a spirit of generosity. As you plan your gift-giving, consider extending that spirit beyond traditional presents. Choosing to donate or support a cause can add a profound layer of meaning to your holiday celebrations, creating a positive impact that lasts long after the decorations come down.
Deborah Johns, Unbound Chief Growth Officer, explains the immense benefits of donating best: “In the whirlwind of the holiday season, it’s easy to get lost in to-do lists, shopping, and endless gatherings. But generosity has a way of grounding us, helping us reconnect with what truly matters. Taking a moment to give is a way to pause, reflect, and express gratitude for all we have. It reminds us—and teaches our children—that the season is about more than just gifts; it’s about kindness, compassion, and sharing joy with those around us. When we give, we’re embracing the heart of the holidays and finding peace in making a life-changing difference for others.”
If you’re looking for ways to make your holiday giving more impactful, here are a few ideas inspired by the work of Unbound, an international nonprofit dedicated to helping families overcome poverty.
Sponsor a Child, Youth, or Elder
One of the most personal ways to give is through sponsorship. This recurring donation provides an individual with access to resources they need, empowering them to build a path out of poverty. It’s more than just financial aid; it’s a human connection.
Sponsorship tells someone they are seen and valued. As Unbound sponsor David Desmond puts it, “In some respects, I think the communication with my sponsored friends is more important than even the financial contribution. It tells them someone else sees them; they are not invisible. They’re a human being who has value and is important.”
This connection is deeply felt by those who receive support. Nicholas, a sponsored child in Kenya, shares how this relationship has changed his life: “The moment I receive letters from them, I feel empowered, I feel encouraged, I feel loved… they are the people who believed in me more than I do.”
Support a Community Project
Sometimes, the biggest impact comes from supporting a group effort. You can contribute to specific projects that help entire communities thrive. These initiatives, often called “Agents of Change” programs, might fund anything from clean water systems and sustainable farms to local business training.
This type of donation allows you to contribute to a tangible outcome that benefits many people at once, creating lasting, sustainable change.
Fund Education and Opportunity
Education is one of the most powerful tools for breaking the cycle of poverty. By contributing to a scholarship fund, you can give students the chance to pursue advanced education and achieve their dreams.
For many, this support is life-changing. Aljohn, a scholarship recipient in the Philippines, says, “The scholarship program of Unbound is my primary source of financial support to support my education… I might not be able to graduate or even continue my studies in college without Unbound.” Your gift can directly pave the way for someone’s future success.
Provide Critical Needs in a Crisis
When disasters like typhoons or earthquakes strike, vulnerable communities are often hit the hardest. A donation to a critical needs fund provides immediate assistance for essentials like food, clean water, and shelter in times of emergency.
This type of giving ensures that help is available when and where it’s needed most, offering a lifeline to families facing unforeseen hardships.
How to Get Started
This holiday season, you can make your giving go further. Instead of another sweater or gadget, consider giving a gift that changes a life. By supporting programs like those at Unbound, you help individuals and communities in need but also add a deeper sense of purpose to your own celebrations.
Andie Ewing, Unbound Chief Operating Officer, notes, “By helping to create a brighter future for others, we find meaning and purpose in our own lives, bringing the spirit of Christmas into our hearts. Giving to Unbound goes beyond a simple gift—your generosity helps create brighter futures, bringing hope, dignity, and opportunity to mothers, children, and elders around the world.”
Ready to make a difference? Explore sponsorship, community projects, and other ways to give.