December News 2024

December has always been my absolute FAVORITE month of the year. It holds my wedding anniversary, winter break, Christmas, my birthday, and New Year's Eve—all packed into one exciting month! However, if I'm not mindful, this cherished month can quickly turn into the one filled with stress. The hustle and bustle of the holidays can bring stress to my time, finances, and relationships. Yet, I've discovered that one of the most important things in life is the power of intentionality.

To Maximize Love & Manage Stress during the holiday season, focus on being intentional about what truly matters to you and your family. Set a budget and stick to it; even better, aim to spend less than planned! Don't hesitate to say no to certain events you're invited to; participation in everything is not necessary. Identify your best yes for yourself and your family, and prioritize those important gatherings. Create new, inexpensive traditions that your family will cherish in the years to come. Emphasize experiences over material gifts for children. Finally, don't forget to carve out some time for self-care!

While reflecting on how to find happiness during the holiday season, I recalled an insightful interview from one of my favorite podcasts back in August. The guest speaker, Arthur Brooks, a Harvard Professor who studies happiness, shared valuable insights. Research has pinpointed four essential habits of the happiest individuals: faith, family, friendships, and meaningful work. Interestingly, wealth and possessions do not make the list! However, there are scientifically-backed ways to spend money that can reduce unhappiness. Here are four ways money can enhance your happiness: 1) purchase experiences with loved ones, 2) buy time with loved ones, 3) donate to others, and 4) save money. When considering the best gift for your loved ones, remember that the most valuable gift costs nothing—it's intentional time. To listen to the interview I'm referencing, click HERE.

For more ideas on how to Maximize Love and Manage Stress this season, check out the tips below!

Research about Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) has been collected for decades, and there is a strong correlation between ACE scores and mental and physical health challenges. However, a percentage of children who have had traumatic experiences grow up and have normal physical and emotional health. Recently, there have been studies about Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs), identifying 7 key positive experiences that can help buffer against childhood adversity.

One of those PCEs is the enjoyment of participation in community traditions. The holiday season is a perfect time for families and communities to participate in fun traditions. The Dalton/Whitfield community is blessed to have so many FREE opportunities.

To find out more about PCEs, read the Full Article Here.

For businesses, organizations, or individuals interested in financially donating to the Sharing is Caring Christmas Program, you can now donate online. Money raised for Sharing is Caring is used to buy clothing and/or gifts for children and youth needing Christmas Assistance in the Whitfield County Community. Scan the QR code or click on the link to donate.

The platform we are using for donations is Zeffy. Zeffy is free for organizations and donors, but the company makes it’s money from donations. It does automatically populate a percentage amount. However, you can change that to $0 or give $1-2 dollars.

Click on the SIC Donation Link Here.

Sharing is Caring Christmas Store

Saturday, December 21, 2024

8:00am-3:00pm

Northwest GA Fairgrounds

DECAL & The Basics

Thursday, January 16, 2025

1:00pm-2:30pm

Mack Gaston Community Center

United Way of NWGA has been in a pillar in the Dalton Community since its inception in 1941. Who hasn't seen the giant thermometer on the corner of Walnut and Thornton Ave with their annual fundraising goals or attended a community event where United Way was a collaborative partner?

After having the privilege to participate in their Leaders United training in November, I had the chance to learn more about the agency and how much they do for the community. The mission of the United Way of NWGA is Improving Lives. Inspiring Donors. Uniting Community. According to the 2023 Impact Report, 64,799 Whitfield and Murray County lives were impacted through United Way's support.

Fundraising for community agencies who are working within their guidelines for community impact on education, basic needs, and health is just one of the focuses of United Way. During the last fiscal year, United Way allocated the majority of the funds raised to support over 25 community agencies, programs, and partners. 15% of the funding was used for community resiliency, 34% for community health initiatives, 22% for financial security or basic needs, and 29% for youth opportunities. Community partners who receive funding go through a vetting process to ensure accountability to donors.

In addition to supporting community partners, United Way also helps to coordinate volunteer opportunities for youth, businesses, and individuals. Additionally, the Community Resource Guide is compiled, updated, and administered through United Way. United Way funds the community virtual case manager to reduce duplication of resources that is open to any organization that is offering direct services. There are also several leadership groups you could join. To learn more about United Way's impact, visit their website or follow their Facebook Page.

United Way is close to reaching their 2024 fundraising goal! If you would like to contribute to be a part of the community impact, you can make an online donation by clicking HERE. Together we can continue to impact our local community, one life at a time by partnering with United Way!