During the holiday season, people love to give back to the community. They may donate food to the Highlight Area Food Bank, donate money to their favorite charity, or even donate time to a local nonprofit over a weekend or two. But when the holiday season is over in January, they stop. They don’t continue to donate food or their time. While it’s great to give back to the community during the holidays — and many local charities and families appreciate it — volunteerism shouldn’t end on Dec. 26. Just because the holidays are over doesn’t mean there are no longer people in need. It’s important to give back year-round, even if you aren’t giving in the same capacity. Maybe you donate your time during the holidays but donate food throughout the year. It’s as simple as picking up a few extra canned goods at the grocery store with every trip. While many food banks are well-stocked during the holidays thanks to the generosity of so many people, their stocks can become inconsistent as the year progresses. They don’t have people “Chestnuts roasting on an open fire” is an iconic image of Christmas, but we’re willing to bet most people reading this have never eaten a chestnut. Change that this year with this awesome paleo- friendly appetizer. Bacon-Wrapped Chestnuts
contributing at the same rate as they did in November and December.
To help combat this issue, some businesses actually hold food drives later in the year in the spring and summer. It’s a great way to give back at a time when many people don’t. This may be something to bring to your own place of work or your neighborhood. When it comes to volunteering, this is actually a fantastic activity for retirees and seniors. When you volunteer, you get out of the house, and you get to work with others. It can mean getting more physical and mental activity in your day, which is crucial for the brain health of seniors. Chances are there’s a nearby organization that would love your help. You can find more information, including volunteer opportunities in your area, at both NationalService.gov/programs/ senior-corps and Seniorcorps.org . Another great resource for everyone can be found at Burienwa. gov/city_hall/working_with_us/volunteer. As little as two hours of volunteer service every week can have a profound positive impact.
Making a Difference Throughout the Year
INGREDIENTS:
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2 8-oz cans water chestnuts
Tamari (wheat-free soy sauce), but can substitute with coconut aminos
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1/4 cup coconut sugar
1 lb sliced bacon, quartered
DIRECTIONS:
1. Heat an oven to 400 F. 2. Place a wire rack on a baking sheet lined with parchment and set aside. 3. Drain liquid from canned water chestnuts, add tamari to cover, and let soak for 15 minutes in the cans. 4. Drain tamari, roll each chestnut in coconut sugar, wrap with bacon, and spear on toothpick. 5. Place chestnuts on prepared rack. Bake for 30–35 minutes. 6. Plate and serve.
Inspired by “Paleo Happy Hour” by Kelly Milton
www.LakeBurienPT.com • 3
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