The summer holidays are an excellent opportunity for more time with your family members. If you’re looking for a fun way to make memories together, consider giving back this Christmas. I’ve loved exploring the numerous ways we can all help our communities with family members of any age.

1. Deliver Free Meals

Delicious meals and desserts are a foundational part of many Christmas traditions. Unfortunately, some people don’t have reliable access to food. Research shows that 3% to 9% of Australian adults experience food insecurity for various reasons.

Your family could give back by delivering meals with groups that address food insecurity in your local community. I love the feeling of handing someone a ready-to-eat dish that will warm their hearts while filling their stomachs.

2. Donate Food Items

I start sorting through my kitchen pantry when Christmas is around the corner. Food charities are always looking for donations, especially as people celebrate the holidays. Ask your family members to each choose one thing from your kitchen to donate.

You should check your local charity centre’s guidelines for donations. I forgot to do that when I first dropped off food and had to bring things home. They typically don’t want anything perishable, but the guidelines change for each organisation.

3. Clean a Beach

December is a great time to head to the nearest beach. People sometimes forget that the coast still encounters pollution during the Christmas season. Choose a warm day to pick up trash so the ocean biome thrives.

Beachside work is also an excellent opportunity for children. Kids who volunteer are 34% more likely to have good health because their experiences teach them so many skills. They’ll spend the day walking along the sand and lifting trash bags, which will build their physical strength while helping them feel good about the environment.

4. Join a Planting Day

If you want to help the planet but don’t live close to a beach, look for a nearby landcare group. Organisations host planting days where you can plant trees or flowers wherever the environment needs some extra greenery. If your family members are old enough to hold a watering hose, they can help diversify the local landscape.

Planting days are excellent volunteer opportunities, but they require some supplies to stay comfortable and safe. Bring sunscreen if you plan to spend the day outside. You’ll also need a snack and water to keep up with the physical activity.

5. Walk a Neighbour’s Dog

Ask your local friends and neighbours if they have any animals that need a walk. They may be travelling for holiday activities and appreciate the extra help while their pets stay at home. Walking can increase your cognitive functioning, which helps with work and school performance.

Volunteering to help your neighbour’s pets is something you can do with kids of all ages. Pack a pram for your little ones or let your kids follow you on their bicycles to get everyone involved. I’ve always appreciated how this idea doesn’t take much time but still makes other people’s lives brighter.

6. Visit a Community Garden

Community gardens often grow food for people without regular access to vegetables. See if a nearby garden could use an extra set of hands this Christmas season. There may be some indoor or outdoor gardening centres that need support while their typical volunteers travel for the holidays. You’ll keep their food growth on track so everyone has a chance to eat something healthy in your hometown.

Give Back with Your Loved Ones

Create memories with your family this Christmas by volunteering your time and effort. There are numerous memorable ways to give back. I always consider my family members’ interests and ages to pick activities that keep them entertained and show them how rewarding it feels to help our community.

Mia Barnes is a professional freelance writer and the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine. Mia specialises in women’s and family wellness with the goal of empowering parents everywhere to be the best they can be.