by Carol Flett

Created on: November 08, 2010   Last Updated: December 24, 2010

Every year in December we see throngs of tired shoppers pushing their way through crowded department stores; we see plenty of costly decorations lighting up the night with millions of watts of electricity; and then after Christmas we see a few more of our friends or neighbors struggling with depression after the bills come in. Is this the sort of celebration you want for your family this Christmas. If not, then you need a plan; one that will be meaningful, inexpensive, and fun for the whole family.

Start by gathering your family together for a brainstorming session. It is surprising what a young teen or even a seven or eight year old can contribute to this type of discussion, especially if you kick start the session by watching the movie, the Christmas Choir, or perhaps Homeless for Holidays

If you have raised them to think of the other person, your children may be willing to sacrifice their own personal gift expectations in favor of acts of kindness to the less fortunate.

Be prepared to follow up any of their reasonable suggestions. They may suggest filling Samaritan's Purse boxes, giving food for local hampers, or sending relief money to places like Haiti.

But if you want to spice up your charitable giving and make it a truly memorable experience, ask them if they know anyone in your own community who might not be able to have much of a Christmas. Then figure a way to surprise the needy friend without letting any one know who the giver is. Secrets are always exciting but especially at Christmas.

Try to focus your plans around hand made gifts or the gift of time and thoughtfulness. How would your neighbor feel if their walk was shovelled or swept during the night while they slept, or if a home cooked meal was dropped off for them. You could have a family baking bee to prepare foods for giving. Even little children can contribute to gift boxes by make popcorn or cranberry garlands to add cheer to someone else's home. The idea is to think of ways to make a difference without maxing your credit cards or loudly displaying your generosity.

Next try to think of community projects your family could get involved in. Does your Church or community put on a yearly Christmas program? If so, each member of the family should decide if they would like to act, sing, build and paint props, work with lighting, or help with all the darling little angels. There is usually a place for every kind of talent, and it will unite your family in purpose if all the family can take part.

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