Giving back while giving gifts is becoming a popular nationwide tradition with the #GivingTuesday campaign. While being charitable isn’t a new concept, the United Nations Foundation founded #GivingTuesday to spur annual charitable donations to nonprofits everywhere on the first Tuesday every December. This year, it’s December 2nd. While #GivingTuesday mostly encourages donations, you can give back in a variety of ways. Join the global celebration of giving back with these philanthropic activities:

Volunteer at the soup kitchen—While you and your family are enjoying delicious meals for the holidays, think about others who don’t have the same luxury. Dedicate some time to volunteer at the soup kitchen or homeless shelter to help other in need. Invite family and friends to spread goodwill.

Host a food pantry drive—Ask your friends, family and holiday guests to bring at least one food item to donate when they visit during December, and build a donation for the local food pantry. You could announce a goal, like gathering 25 canned foods, or just encourage the guests to remember to bring an item.

Scoop your neighbor’s sidewalk—Pay it forward by spending an extra couple minutes in the cold scooping your neighbor’s sidewalk and driveway. It is a nice gesture during the cold months and your neighbor will be so grateful.

Make blankets for hospital patients—Get friends and family together to make tie blankets to donate to hospital patients. Search “tie blanket” for easy DIY instructions. Pick fun colors and patterns for the blankets to spread holiday cheer throughout the local hospital.