The first time I took my son to pick out Christmas gifts for a family in need, he didn’t quite understand why we weren’t bringing them home. His hesitation reminded me that generosity develops through practice. We learn it. We repeat it. And over time, it becomes part of who we are.
A MOTHER’S EXAMPLE
When I was growing up, my mom showed me that giving was not just a once-a-year task. She volunteered weekly with a nonprofit called Single Mothers Outreach, purged our home for donation quarterly and annually served food to the homeless on Thanksgiving. The choices she modeled shaped mine long before I knew the language for it.
THE POWER OF LOCAL GIVING
Generosity also can look like supporting the place we call home through our everyday purchases. Through Gather Gulf Coast, I’ve met countless women who pour their energy and creativity into handmade goods, small storefronts and service-based businesses. Each sale helps stabilize a household, keeps a dream alive and strengthens our local economy.
A COAST THAT CARES
Living on the Coast makes it easy to see what community care looks like: an abundance of local markets, incredible nonprofits and truly impactful annual fundraisers. Through devastating events like Hurricane Katrina, we learned to rebuild by leaning on one another. Now, that spirit of generosity is in our DNA, and we are stronger than ever — a reminder that a rising tide lifts all boats.
THE SPIRIT WE SHARE
Maybe that’s the real magic of Christmas — not just what we give or receive, but how we model the kind of world we want our children to inherit: one built on empathy, connection and care for one another.
WAYS TO INSTILL GENEROSITY IN CHILDREN
- Give them a choice: Let them pick a toy, snack or book to share with someone else. The act of choosing builds empathy.
- Make it a habit: Do it regularly, not just at Christmas. Even setting aside $20 a month or an hour of your time can make a meaningful difference.
- Tell the stories: Help them understand who their gift or support impacts, whether it’s another child or a small business owner they’ve met.
- Model it: Let them see you donate, volunteer and shop with intention. Kids learn generosity through example.
- Reflect together: After giving, ask how it felt. Naming that feeling helps them connect generosity with joy and belonging.