Celebrating Valentine’s Day is about expressing love by any means and is not limited to purchasing the biggest box of chocolates on the shelf.
Friends, family members and significant others alike can share the love by volunteering, donating, reaching out to those in need or spending quality time with loved ones.
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s Heart Swap
One way to contribute to a meaningful cause is by making a charitable donation to Children’s Healthcare to receive a yard sign in the shape of a heart. For $25 this pink sign with red script lettering spelling out “love” is available to place in a neighbor’s yard to make sure they feel loved. In exchange for a $5 donation, a virtual heart of the same style will be emailed to a friend of the philanthropist’s choosing along with a personalized message. This begins the “swap” and invites the recipient of the heart to make a similar donation.
Spending Time With Friends and Loved Ones
Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to round up a group of friends or family. The possibilities for activities are endless and almost anything can be considered a Valentine’s Day celebration on Feb. 14. Enjoying oven-baked goods and a cheesy movie marathon is just as classic as attending a five-star restaurant reservation. Even volunteering with loved ones is an excellent way to bond and spread more love.
Elders’ Letter to an Elder Day
Volunteering to send personal, handwritten letters to those in nursing homes this February is something anyone can do from the comfort of their own home. Love for Our Elders is a nonprofit organization that provides names and mailing addresses of people across the country who have requested or been nominated to receive letters from those willing to write them. Combating loneliness this season is important for everyone regardless of age and receiving Valentine’s Day cards is just one way to do so. Letter to an Elder Day this year is Feb. 26, although the nonprofit accepts letters year-round.
Bombas: Giving the Gift that Gives Back
Gift-giving is a great way to show appreciation for someone on Valentine’s Day and the right purchase can also help someone in need. Bombas is a clothing company that sells socks, underwear, tee shirts and slippers. For every item of clothing purchased from Bombas, the company donates an item to a homeless shelter. There are plenty of styles and color combinations to choose from and everything is made with comfort in mind.
Practicing Self-Love
Self-care is a key precursor to being able to help others. It is imperative before doing any meaningful work. Self-care looks different for every person and whether it may be taking a hot shower or eating an extra sweet treat, there is no better time for it than the season of love.
