Generosity has the power to raise and inspire us, serving as a reminder of the compassion and goodwill that unite us all. The greatest instances of giving can have a profound impact on communities and leave a lasting impression, whether they are modest, everyday gestures or amazing deeds that transform lives.

We asked thought leaders to describe the most noteworthy instances of kindness they have seen. Their insights offer significant perspectives on how everyone of us can help make the world a more generous place that give hope to others this season and beyond.

Building Bridges with Inclusive Celebrations

On my drive home from the office, I pass a church that had a sign up recently, “Don’t build a higher fence, build a longer table.” Just this simple message has been enough to think more carefully about the events and the people we look to invite to our festive season celebrations.

For example we can often quickly include couples with children for Christmas lunch without including single folks. 

We can always put on alcohol and certain types of meat dishes without considering it might make our Hindu, Jewish or Muslim friends have to pick at a small range of dishes.

And my favourite event we have held for a few years has been the “Dads and Kids” Camp, where we invite the dads we don’t see so much after a divorce which can see them not be as readily available. This has helped rekindle connections and ensure the bond between families is kept strong.

Much of this thinking comes from my mother with her community mindedness and the many gifts of her time and care that she has shared with others. I thank her for that leadership and see that help me in my digital marketing work and staying mindful of the smaller groups that are quickly overlooked, but can be readily served with some small adjustments. 

These may seem small gestures, but hopefully they help to build bridges when life and circumstances want to put in divides that are really not that difficult to cross.

Mark Jones, Managing Director, Your Digital Solution

Volunteering to Preserve a Sentimental Tree

One of the most touching acts of generosity I experienced happened during a holiday season a few years ago when my team and I volunteered to help a local elderly homeowner who could not afford to take care of the massive oak tree in her yard. The tree had become hazardous, with heavy branches threatening to fall and damage her home. She shared how it held sentimental value, as her late husband had planted it decades ago, but she didn’t have the means to maintain it or safely remove the dangerous limbs. I decided to offer our services at no cost, involving my entire team to ensure the tree was properly trimmed and preserved. We also educated her on how to maintain the tree’s health moving forward, giving her peace of mind and preserving a memory that meant so much to her. 

This moment stands out to me because it embodied the spirit of the holidays: coming together to provide hope and relief. My background as a certified arborist and years of hands-on experience helped us navigate the challenges of this complex project with precision and care. It reminded me of how small acts of service in our line of work can transcend cultural and economic barriers. Trees hold a universal symbolism of growth, family, and connection, and being able to protect that for someone is an honor that I’ll never take for granted.

Amaury Ponce, Business Owner, Ponce Tree Services

Donating Profits for Children’s Dental Care

One of the most inspiring acts of generosity I’ve seen came from a client who runs an online store. Each holiday season, they donate a percentage of their profits to fund dental care for underprivileged children in rural areas. This initiative not only supports local health but also spreads awareness about the importance of dental hygiene globally. As someone deeply involved in helping businesses grow, it was touching to see their success translate into real-world impact.

This act brought hope across cultures because it showed how businesses can create change beyond their immediate markets. It reminded me of the power of giving back—whether as a business or individual—and how these efforts ripple out to make the world just a little brighter for everyone involved.

Greg Walters, Co-Founder, SEO Modify

Serving Community Meals Across Cultures

The best act of generosity I’ve encountered that brings hope across cultures, especially during the holiday season, is the simple yet profound act of community meals. One example that comes to mind is the tradition of langar, practiced in Sikh communities, where free meals are served to anyone regardless of their background, faith, or status. During Christmas, similar acts of kindness unfold globally, from soup kitchens serving warm meals to the homeless to neighborhoods organizing potlucks for those who are alone during the holidays.

These moments of shared humanity go beyond cultural and religious boundaries, reminding us that generosity is universal. They create a sense of belonging, foster connections, and truly embody the spirit of the season. It inspires me to think that a single meal or act of kindness has the power to weave communities closer together, even amidst our differences, and serve as a beacon of hope for a more compassionate world.

Akhilesh Sharma, PR Strategist, Level Up PR

Sharing Meals to Unite and Show Kindness

One of the most heartwarming acts of generosity I’ve encountered is the tradition of sharing meals during the holidays. In so many cultures, people come together to ensure no one goes hungry or feels alone during this time. Whether it’s a soup kitchen in a busy city or a village organizing a community feast, it shows how food can unite us. I’ve seen neighbors cook extra meals to share, and strangers come together at a table to connect over something as simple as a warm dish. 

It’s a recap that generosity doesn’t have to be complicated—offering a meal to someone is one of the purest ways to show kindness. Across languages and traditions, sharing food creates hope and a sense of belonging.

Chinyelu Karibi-Whyte, Self-Care, Mindfulness & Resilience Advocate, Pheel Pretty