Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Medtronic. All opinions are 100% my own.

The holidays are the perfect time to remember to give back. Sometimes, we get swept up in the commotion and stress of the holidays, buying presents, cooking, baking, decorating – we forget the reason for the season and that’s to give to others.

Medtronic has selected 10 honorees from around the world as part of the
. These honorees have overcome a life changing medical challenge and are using this time to live life to the fullest.

Here, I share 8+ ways to give back without breaking the bank.

Giving back doesn’t need to be a huge monetary donation, because, well, let’s face it – I’m no millionaire.

But there are other ways that you (and me) can give back to our community.

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Donate your time.

Whether it be at a kitchen that serves hot meals for the homeless, the food pantry, church, etc. Volunteering doesn’t cost you a dime.

You could also donate your time (and your children’s time) to the senior citizen center or residence in your area. A lot of elderly individuals don’t have much family left and spending time with them can brighten their holidays.

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Donate food, clothing, toys, etc.

to homeless shelters or places that provide necessities to the homeless shelter.

In Arizona, we donate a lot to St. Vincent de Paul who donates to the homeless and to Teen Life who work with teenagers with substane abuse.

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Donate a new toy or two

to Toys for Tots or another program rather than give your child that extra toy or two.

A couple of years ago, I cancelled Christmas. Not the actual season, but we decided that we would not give our kids gifts. Family did and Santa did, but mom and dad didn’t.

Instead, we had our big kids go to the store and pick out two toys that they really wanted that Christmas and we had them donate to our local children’s home instead.

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Bake for the local fire department or police department

. They serve our community a lot and typically have to cook themselves when on shift (unless they are volunteer). Give back this holiday season by baking them cookies, pies, or maybe even a home made holiday meal. They are missing time with their family to serve their community.

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Adopt a family for Christmas

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Tip generously

. Restaurant staff are people too and many have families. While they live on a small pay rate, they rely heavily on their tips. It’s always nice to give back by generously tipping during the holiday season.

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Do to others as you would have them do to you

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Share your story for how you

For every story, Medtronic Philanthropy will donate $10 to Project HOPE.

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Live on. Give on.