(BPT) - The holiday season is about more than picking the fullest tree, listening to nostalgic carols and planning the perfect family photo. Between addressing holiday cards and toasting the New Year, it's a great time to incorporate charitable giving into your traditions. No matter your time constraints, there are many ways for you to spread goodness, in addition to good cheer, this holiday season.

* Lend a hand:  Many organizations are in need of helping hands. Transport disabled or needy patients to their medical appointments or religious services, deliver meals to homebound seniors or visit a children's hospital or rehabilitation center. Make a difference in your own neighborhood by raking leaves, shoveling snow or hanging holiday lights for an elderly neighbor. Picking up trash at a local park or painting over graffiti is always appreciated by city services.

* Volunteer your services: Food banks tend to have the highest usage during winter months. Get involved collecting food donations, spend time stocking shelves at a local food pantry or work directly with families in need via a holiday sponsorship program. Do you play a musical instrument? Are you good at fundraising, office organization, public speaking, party planning or writing newsletters? Offer your specific talent to an organization that could utilize it.