photo courtesy of redstamp.com
Feel the need to do something you’ve never done before? Want to bless a stranger or make someone’s day even though you’ve never met? A funny thing happens when you try to do something nice for others– you end up feeling better, too! Try some of these ideas for giving a gift to a complete stranger.
Pay For the Person Behind You
This works perfectly whether you’re in the drive-thru at McDonald’s or waiting to pay a toll on the Interstate. Simply tell the cashier you want to pay for the person behind you. They’ll get a surprise gift and you’ll feel good knowing you’ve done something to improve another person’s day.
Send an Anonymous Gift
Pull out your phone book, close your eyes, and point to a name. Wherever your finger lands is the recipient of your gift. Send them a card with some encouraging words, some cash or a gift card to a local restaurant.
Call the Utility Company
Call your local power or water company. Tell them you want to pay someone’s bill who is at risk of having their service cut for non-payment. Perhaps you’re helping a struggling single mom or a father that lost his job. You may never know how much this gift means to someone in need.
Help a Teacher
Find an under-served classroom in your area through AdoptaClassroom.com and help a teacher by purchasing needed supplies or books. Not only will you be giving the teacher a gift, but you’ll be helping the students as well.
Bake Some Treats
Bake brownies, cookies or pies and take them down to your local fire station. Chances are you don’t know any of the men and women there, but you’ll be giving them a great gift– the knowledge that someone appreciates their hard work.
Pick up the Tab
Next time you’re at a restaurant, gas station or coffee shop, offer to pick up the tab for a stranger. If they ask for a reason just tell them you wanted to make another person’s day. And chances are you will.
