In an effort to be politically correct, the “holiday season” has been given many nicknames over the years. This way, holidays from Christmas to Kwanzaa to Hanukkah will be encompassed in the “holiday” banner.

Another familiar pseudonym given to the month of December is the “Season of Giving.” Salvation Army bell ringers are outside supermarkets and charities of every shape and size are asking for donations. At times it can almost seem daunting.

Yet, being charitable is an activity that should not be saved for one month a year. The unsung heroes of the community are not the ones that write the largest checks every December — they are the people who make contributions to their fellow mankind every day. 

Lending a helping hand does not always have to be a lavish affair. It can be something small, such as volunteering to do a park clean-up, or something more extensive like Habitat for Humanity. Volunteer programs come in every shape and size, from SPCA dog walkers to the plethora of positions available at local nursing homes and hospitals. 

I know for me personally, my charity of choice is the Red Cross, where I donate not by the dollar but by the pint. I’ve been an active blood donor for a number of years. Although I can’t always go through with the process — my iron levels continue to shift — I am always ready to make an effort. And why not? Aside from the fact there are free cookies and juice, and kindly grandmother-esque figures to talk to you when you are finished, the Red Cross is forever offering new incentives to bring donors in. This month it’s a bag of Dunkin’ Donuts coffee, a favorite.

Remember this holiday season to be kind to your fellow man. But after the 12 days of Christmas have come and gone, do not let the season end. There are many people out there who are in need of help every day, not just once a year.

Then of course there is that natural high you get from knowing you just helped someone, or even potentially saved a life. In my case that high may be attributed to my remaining blood rushing around the body, but either way it is a great feeling.

Happy holidays to you and yours from the staff of the Journal-Register.

Jessica Wasmund is the city editor for The Journal-Register. Comments are welcomed at jessica.wasmund@gnnewspaper.com