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The season of giving is here, and because of a still-sour

economy, most Americans wish they had a little more to

give than they do.

The truth? We all have a lot to give - more than we

might think - because generosity isn't limited by the

balance of your bank account.

Presents under the tree are nice. But if you believe, like

we do, that the best part about the holidays is the

chance they give us to reflect on and remember what's

most important in our lives, consider bypassing long

lines at department stores. Instead of gifting, make this

year about giving. Here's how.

There are thousands of reputable charities out there

who need your help, especially at the holidays. To find

one right for you, try Charity Navigator

(charitynavigator.org). They rate charities on how they

use donations and how many people they reach.

Besides making a real difference for people in need,

giving to charity for the holidays makes a powerful and

meaningful gift. Most will allow you to donate in

someone else's name and some provide gift cards and

certificates when you do. There couldn't be a better

present than knowing you've done something great for

someone who really needs it.

Charity doesn't have to cost a thing, except for a few

hours out of your schedule. Instead of exchanging

expensive gifts this year, organize a family-and-

friends trip to a local soup kitchen, shelter, or

donation center.

Community organizations like these need extra

manpower during the holidays. The weather is

colder, food is more scarce, and those in need have

fewer options to get a warm coat or a hot meal. You

could be the difference between a happy holiday or

another hungry night for families in need.

Spring cleaning is a good idea, but it doesn't do as

much good as a winter sweep could. Spend some

time with your family or friends going through your

wardrobe and closets. If you haven't worn or used

something in over a year, chances are, you won't

miss it when it's gone.

Donate gently used coats, clothes, toys, and any

unopened packaged and canned food you find to a

local shelter, church, or charity. It won't cost you a

dime and could give a family an unexpectedly - and

much needed - happy holiday season.

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You may want to volunteer or donate to charities this

season, but figuring out where and how can be tough.

Visit allforgood.org and get your search started for the

holidays. It's a comprehensive search engine for

volunteer opportunities, and it's one you can trust: even

the White House's site links to it.

Just visit the site, type in the kind of charity you're

looking for (soup kitchen, for example) and your zip

code. Next, the site finds local organizations looking for

your help.

For more about community service and how you can

get involved, year round, visit www.serve.gov.