As the holidays are coming in full swing, it's a time to not only think of your family but also other families as well. Christmas can be tough for many reasons, but the one I have noticed the most is what to give all of your loved ones. Now I know I have already written an article on what to give as gifts, however this is a little different. If you're like me, you have seen and heard all of the tragedies that have occurred in the awful year that is 2016.

Every time I saw an update on the Dakota access pipeline

protestors, or the current state of Aleppo, I felt the need to help in some

way. But it’s not just those widely known areas that are in need of help; it’s

everybody, especially the lesser thought of places that need any and every kind

of help. So in the spirit of giving and being kind to one another I’m going to

throw out a suggestion this Christmas. Instead of giving a material item, give

the gift of a donation in the recipient’s name. Don’t start booing and hissing

just yet, think about it first; does your niece really need another toy? Does

your dad actually want that complicated gadget? Let’s be real, does anybody in

the family really want a gag gift? No, they do not. Here are just a few

charities to choose from:

1. Unicef for Syrian children

2. Help the ASPCA save animals in need!

3. Water Aid

4. Food for the poor

5. NODAPL

6. Samaritan's Purse

7. Help Haitian children

8. St. Jude Children's research

9. Direct Relief fund

10. Boys & Girls Club of America

These are just a few places to donate but there are plenty of places that would love your help. I can tell you from experience that seeing receiving a card that says a much-needed farm animal or clean water was donated to a family in need is the most rewarding feeling.

If you don't have the finances to give a chicken, hey I get it. Times are tough, money can get tight, and there is only so much you can do. An alternative to donating money would be donating time and effort. I would suggest volunteering at a local soup kitchen, American Red Cross, or a local shelter for the homeless. Or if you don't have that much time on your hands, donating blood is another way to go; donating blood one pint of blood can help save up to three lives. The procedure is easy, safe, quick, and all you have to do is lay down for a few minutes then you get juice and cookies at the end! How awesome is that?

There is more to give than just material items that will eventually get boring. Help a city, family, or person with a one time donation this Christmas.