By Paula Jero, Executive Director
While there I began thinking about Christmas shopping. While I love buying presents for the kids in my life, I often find it difficult and frustrating to buy for the adults. Each year it becomes harder and harder to find the perfect gift, or for that matter any gift for the hard-to-buy-for individuals on my list.
Finding a gift that I think they will like is impossible since nothing seems quite right, and I hate the thought of spending money on something that they really don’t want or need.
Realistically does my mother-in-law need yet another scarf or more body lotion? My Aunt Diane has no need for another knick-knack or other item that will just gather dust, and my dad has enough ties and golf shirts to last his lifetime.
I know at my house stashed in my closets are unused gifts that I have received over the years. I always appreciated the thought that went into the gift, but not necessarily the gift itself. I know I’m not unique in my dilemma, a number of people that I have talked to said that shopping for “those that have everything” just adds to the stress of the season.
This holiday season I want each of the individuals on my list to know that I was thinking of them this season. This year I have decided to give something that gives back. I am going to donate to the Marshfield Area United Way in their honor.
Instead of something that gathers dust, the gift will help 13,000 individuals in our community with basic needs like food, shelter and safety. Or assist young people to become productive adults and provide families with support and services. Now that is quite a gift.
Each of those honored by my donation will receive an acknowledgment of the gift made in their name. Those that I choose to honor will know that I was thinking of them this holiday season, our community will benefit, and maybe just maybe I’ll be reminded of the true meaning of the holiday season.
It is truly a season to give.
