Fun ways to give back to others this holiday season

1. Donate food or serve meals at the Salvation Army's annual Thanksgiving dinner, or ring bells for donations. Call 573-335-7000.

2. Ask a nursing home if you can help with any holiday activities or visit residents who don't have friends and family nearby.

3. Donate food or help organize and pack goods at the Southeast Missouri Food Bank. Call 573-651-0400.

4. Give toys to the Cape Girardeau Jaycees Toybox drive. Stay tuned for drop-off locations.

5. Get plugged in at your church -- help plan the special services for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Eve; put up and take down decorations; visit shut-ins or organize a group of carolers.

6. Spend time with animals at the Humane Society or Safe Harbor Animal Sanctuary. During the holidays, regular volunteers might not have as much time to spend at the shelter. Now is a good time to step in and help, then continue your commitment in the New Year.

7. Give a Christmas donation to your favorite charity.

8. Send a care package to a soldier serving far from home. If you don't know a soldier, get connected via a site like www.anysoldier.com or www.operationshoebox.com.