Did you know that generosity and giving back benefits your wellbeing? In fact, helping others may just be the secret to living a life that is not only happier but also healthier, wealthier, more productive, and meaningful.
Of course, you shouldn’t give with the main objective of making yourself feel good, but it’s nice to know there’s a strong correlation, right? #DidYouKnow entering its seventh year, #GivingTuesday is a global day of giving fueled by the power of social media and collaboration. Celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving (in the U.S.) #GivingTuesday kicks off the charitable season, when many focus on their holiday and end-of-year giving. Since its inaugural year in 2012, #GivingTuesday has become a movement that celebrates and supports giving and philanthropy with events throughout the year and a growing catalog of resources.
If you’re unsure where to start, check out what we are up to in and around our community! Brambleton is a big believer in paying it forward; not just around the holidays but throughout each year. Get involved! Let’s pay it forward together. You don’t have to wait until November 27th; we’re already off and running!
The Salvation Army Angel Tree has been placed in the Welcome Center pass-through. If you wish to participate in buying gifts for local children in need, please stop by the Welcome Center to pick up an angel tag. There is lots to do to support our local children. Let’s talk about ideas!
Write a note to our soldiers and put a smile on their faces. We’ll be collecting “Cards for Soldiers” through Dec 31. Donate blank, stamped cards that will be given to soldiers in local medical centers and VA Hospitals to send to their loved ones. Please consider donating cards other than Christmas themes, as other occasions/holidays are needed! Drop off in the Santa Mailbox in the Welcome Center pass-through.
Great news! The Suzanne Eaton Christmas Tree Lot returns to the Brambleton Town Center on November 23rd with fresh cut quality Christmas trees, wreaths & garland. Bring the whole family out to find the perfect tree and stay a while to enjoy the firepit and s’mores. Follow them on Facebook for more details on their hours and selection. Proceeds benefit the Cherry Blossom Breast Cancer Foundation of Middleburg. Over the last 5 years, Brambletonians have helped the Eaton family raise over $31,000 for this local charity!
We can’t forget the Arcola Volunteer Fire Department’s “Santa Holiday Tour” on December 2nd. This is a neighborhood favorite as families gather at designated Santa stops and wait for the big man to ride through the community on a firetruck, collecting donations of new unwrapped toys, clothing, household items, personal care items and gift certificates.
A family to-do? Brambleton will be collecting No-Sew Blankets that will be donated to INOVA Children’s Hospital. You and your family can make No-Sew Fleece Blankets for a child and drop them off at the HOA office through December 14th.You may write a note and tie it to your blanket with ribbon to let the child know that someone is thinking about them. You can also include your pen pal information on the note. Sizing instructions and more can be found here: https://bit.ly/2QCSfiy
Share what you’re up to and tag @BrambletonView and #GivingTuesday or your chosen hashtag to show us what you’re up to in and around Brambleton. Paying it forward is a sure way to put a smile on your face. It certainly makes us happy.
