Check out these ways to give back to your local community.  

With the holiday season upon us, we're consumed with gifts and festivities. However, now, more than ever, is when the needy and less fortunate than us need our help. From animals to seniors to the homeless, a few moments out of our day or a couple of dollars out of our holiday budget can be put to good use by giving back to the local community. Here are a few ways to get started. Volunteer at a senior citizen's home. Many older people living in community homes are forgotten about during the holidays, as their families are busy or too far away. Call up your local senior home to find out if they would accept homemade cookies or treats for the seniors. You may even get to hear a good story or two from the residents about their life experiences! Donate to an animal sanctuary. Don't forget about our four-legged friends this season! Pick up a few cans of pet food at the grocery store or donate pet toys, collars, and blankets to your local pet shelter. If you can, volunteer some time. Dogs often need to be walked and socialized, and this makes a great family activity! Write letters to soldiers. Many of our U.S. troops will be abroad for the holidays. Take the time to write them a holiday card so that they know they aren't forgotten about. You can even get the kids involved and ask them to hand-make a card and write a sweet message. Collect toys for children. Pick up a few toys when you're out holiday shopping to donate to children who would love to receive a gift. Whether you donate to Toys for Tots or take them to your local children's hospital, there's nothing quite like giving a child a toy for the holidays! Select your favorite charity. Think about a cause that's close to your heart. Find out if there's a local charity and see if you can donate time or money. Holidays can get especially hectic for charities, so extra hands or funds are usually very much appreciated. How are you getting involved? Let us know! Contact Bell Black Insurance to secure reliable insurance policies, serving Idaho Falls, Island Park, Driggs, Victor, Swan Valley, Ashton, and the neighboring communities in Idaho, as well as Jackson and Star Valley in Wyoming.