It’s always important to give back to your community and help others. Paying it forward is doing something for someone else and not expecting anything in return. Here are 10 ways you can give back and help those in need.

Volunteer at the Salvation Army. Donate your old winter coats, books, jewelry, blankets, or shoes. The Salvation Army also serves holiday dinners where you can help serve food.

Donate to food drives. Donating canned food is a quick and easy way to help those in need.

Donate blood. If you are old enough, donate blood to the American Red Cross. Donating blood only takes an hour and can help those in a medical emergency.

Volunteer at your local senior citizen center. Talking to the elderly and spending time with them is a great way to spend your extra time.

Organize a community clean up. Gather your friends and family and organize an event to clean up your community. Collect trash and help create a cleaner environment.

Donate to a charity. Get together your extra cash and donate it to a charity. It is a quick and easy way to give back.

Participate in local fundraisers. Whether it is a community run or bake sale, contribute to it. Helping local fundraisers a great way to help those in your own community.

Become an organ donor. By simply registering online you can help save someone’s life who is in desperate need of an organ.

Volunteer at your local animal shelter. Donate food, treats, and your time to the animals in need of a home.

Complete random acts of kindness. By simply holding the door open for someone or sharing a smile can brighten someone’s day. If you see a person drop something, help them pick it up. The little things always matter the most.