The 12 Days of Christmas Countdown: Day 2 (Giving Locally)

On the second day of Christmas, my true love gave to me, ways to spread the love, and a little time reserved just for me.

'Tis greater to give than to receive. Don't believe it? Just try to ignore the endorphins released when the thoughtfulness of your actions bring a smile to someone's face or trigger thanks from a complete stranger.

The holiday season is nothing if not a time of giving. It's no secret among charities that generosity abounds this time of year and many organizations rely on holiday donations to carry them through not only this season, but the rest of the year, too. 

In Clinton Township alone, there are several organizations that serve the local area specifically by providing food, social services, monetary support and more to residents.

Here are a few ways to spread the love this year:

• Chippewa Valley Educational Foundation – Fund mini grants to Chippewa Valley teachers to enhance classroom education and awards scholarships.
• Friends of the Library – Funds special library programs, such as summer reading and Sunday concerts, as well as special purchases, such as e-readers.
• Charity Music – Provides musical instruments, on loan, to homeless students, at- risk, and disadvantaged youth wishing to explore their hidden talents. 
• Macomb Harbor Light – Donations to the Salvation Army help support this Clinton Township location's substance abuse treatment programs and services.
• Macomb Literacy Partners – Donate or volunteer to help adults who have problems reading, writing, and/or speaking English.
• Clinton Township Goodfellows – The Goodfellows fund-raise all year to ensure there is "no child without a Christmas" in Clinton Township. 

While canned food donations are always accepted at local food pantries, grocery store gift cards and monetary donations are even better, as they allow pantry organizers to buy what is most needed at any given time.