In a Nutshell: Give the gift of community

For many, the holiday season is a time of joy, gratitude and giving. Making a charitable gift during this time not only helps those less fortunate but also fosters a sense of compassion and unity. It presents a unique opportunity for our communities to come together and make a positive impact on the lives of our neighbors in need. 

Unfortunately, Americans gave the smallest percentage of their income to charity last year compared to the past 30 years. Looking at inflation and rising cost of living, this trend is not surprising and will likely continue in 2024. 

While many of you may be in the process of considering your year-end giving, I want to assure you that making a gift, no matter how small, brings meaningful change and has an impact on our communities for the year to come. Everyone has something to give, including your time, your funds, your care, your expertise and your voice. 

Do you have an hour a week or an hour a month to spare? Consider volunteering for your favorite local nonprofit organization! There are countless opportunities, including regular, seasonal and one-time shifts. 

Do you have financial resources to share at the end of the year? Contribute a monetary gift to support a cause dear to your heart. If your year-end budget doesn’t allow for a gift, consider a small monthly donation in your 2024 budget. Some of our North Valley Food Bank customers have inspired me personally by giving $10 every month. With their regular donations, they show that they truly believe in our services, see the impact first hand and contribute to well-nourished communities. 

Do you have some flexibility in your shopping budget? Perhaps pick up a few extra items at the store. Food banks, like ours, consistently welcome food donations, and numerous organizations host holiday gift drives or maintain online wishlists.

A recent conversation with a friend prompted me to reflect on how I choose which organizations to support amid many local and global opportunities. It made me consider the alignment of my personal values with those of the organizations I contribute to, what inspires me and my primary concerns for our communities. 

The values of the North Valley Food Bank — dignity, equity, community, wellbeing and innovation — resonate deeply with mine. Witnessing our volunteers, donors, customers, board and team members embody these values daily fills me with excitement for my work. We ensure that everyone is welcome, allocate resources equitably and foster physical and mental wellbeing. This makes me excited about going to work and I love building food-secure communities through collaborations and by learning and refining our services continuously!

Beyond my role at North Valley Food Bank, I am dedicated to fostering sustainable local food systems and to supporting organizations that address our neighbor’s basic needs. This holiday season, I include small donations to Land to Hand, AERO Montana, the Samaritan House and Housing Whitefish in my year-end giving. 

Finally, I believe that the most meaningful way to give during the holiday season is to check on your neighbor. This time can be difficult and isolating for some, but it also offers an opportunity to connect, to take the initiative and invite a neighbor over to share a meal and build community. 

Giving during the holidays allows us to spread joy, strengthen communities, teach empathy and make a lasting impact. As you celebrate, think about how you like to give the gift of community this holiday season. What inspires you and how do you want to bring positive change in the lives of others not just during the holidays, but throughout the year?

Sophie Albert is the executive director of North Valley Food Bank. Albert provides insights into happenings at the food bank, rural food insecurity, stories of the community and more in the monthly Whitefish Pilot column titled, In a Nutshell.