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This is the time of year when everyone is thinking about gifts.  Some are buying, others are thinking about what they might be getting.  Some may be doing some of both.  There are lots of types of gifts.  The first thing that many of us default to are the big screen TVs, hi-po car parts and video games… maybe even some socks and underwear.  Most of us don’t think about gifts to our community.

But those can be some of the best gifts…  and we can give them for almost free.

I have been volunteering for Junior Achievement for the last few years.  It is incredibly rewarding walking into a classroom and getting the AMAZING reaction from the kids.  They are so ready for a “new” adult to come and talk to them about business and economics.  Seriously.  Actually, they are ready for someone to talk to them about almost anything.  But I can tell you that they REALLY want to learn, engage, share and grow.

Getting more volunteers for JA would be a great thing, but honestly, there are a lot of opportunities to gift that kind of gift to the community.  Scouting is another great option (I’m involved with that, as well…).  There are local community centers, senior centers, parks… there are a LOT of ways that you can give something to the community.

Many of those opportunities magnify that gift… kind of like a corporate match, but in effect rather than cash.  As an example, for the two volunteer programs that I dedicate most of my time to, JA and Scouting, have the added value of making a real impact in the lives of kids.  JA plants the seeds of entrepreneurship in youngsters, while Scouting fosters leadership and responsibility.  Both of those things are long term gifts to the community that pay back MUCH more than the meager investment we adults make in the kids.

Last year I wrote a little about my experience with JA.  Check it out.  Find your local chapter.  Or get involved with Scouting (Boy, Girl, Venturing, etc.).  You don’t have to have a kid in the Troop, Pack or Crew… just a desire to make a positive impact and have a great time doing it.