Giving back for the holidays

It’s the perfect time to reflect on life’s many gifts: family, friends, neighbors, and the world around us. Giving back can offer opportunities to contribute meaningfully in our communities — with noteworthy benefits for your physical and emotional health.

Though in-person volunteering dipped in 2020 due to covid-19, some people feel ready to safely gather to sing and socialize at an assisted living facility, babysit a family member’s kids while parents complete last-minute shopping, or join a cleanup crew for your community park. If you’re social distancing, solo activities like building a little free library or birdhouse create connection, and there’s always opportunities for volunteering online.

“When you get a chance to volunteer, you feel good about yourself,” says Richard W., a Texas Humana member and caregiver who turned to volunteer work to stay in touch with his community.