A Season of Giving — Let’s Reach Beyond Our Celebrations

This week, I’m taking a little break from writing my usual marketing blog to talk about something close to my heart: the importance of giving back as we head into the holiday season.

Now that November is here, the holiday season is in full swing, a time of warmth, plans, & special moments. Yet amid the excitement & joy, it’s easy to forget those just beyond our own celebrations.

Many families aren’t sure if they’ll have enough food for Thanksgiving. Schools & animal shelters often run low on supplies & helping hands as the year winds down. Right next door, people & animals quietly rely on the kindness of others to get by.

I’ve put together a short list of items that families, shelters, & schools need most this time of year — simple things that can make a big difference.

Schools:

• Notebooks

• Pencils

• Pens

• Folders

• Markers

• Crayons

Animal Shelters:

• Dry & canned dog/cat food

• Treats & toys

• Blankets, towels, beds

• Leashes, collars, litter

• Cleaning supplies (bleach, paper towels)

Food Pantries & Drives:

• Canned tuna, chicken, or beans

• Soups, stews & chili

• Pasta & sauce

• Rice or mac & cheese

• Canned fruits & veggies

• Peanut butter

• Oatmeal, cereal, or granola bars

• Shelf‑stable milk

Here’s why these needs matter:

• For schools: Nearly 97 % of educators say their budget doesn’t stretch far enough to meet students’ needs. Teachers are covering hundreds of dollars out‑of‑pocket each year — & the cost of supplies has been rising.

• For animal shelters: More than 5.8 million cats & dogs entered shelters or rescues in the U.S. in 2024. Animal charities receive only about 3 % of all U.S. charitable giving when combined with environmental causes.

• For food pantries: Over 50 million people received assistance from the charitable food sector in 2023. Meanwhile the demand continues to climb & the cost of providing food is increasing — food banks are paying ~30 % more per pound.

And if financial giving isn’t possible right now, your time is just as valuable. Volunteering, spreading awareness, or simply offering kindness can mean more than you know.

If giving isn’t in the cards today, it’s something to keep in mind: Giving Tuesday (December 2nd) is coming — a day to make a difference however you can.

As we step into this season of giving, let’s remember those who could use a little extra love & support. Even the smallest act of generosity can make someone’s world feel a little warmer.

 -Malorie Ragsdale, MBA.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely my own and do not reflect the views or opinions of any affiliated organizations, employers, or other entities.