5 Simple Ways to Show Gratitude and Appreciation for the People that Make Your Community Run

The holidays are a perfect time to show gratitude and appreciation for people who help your family in your day-to-day activities and make your community run.

You don’t have to do much to acknowledge how much someone helps your family and community. A simple “thank-you” when they’re helping your family will show your appreciation.

But if you want to go beyond just a “thank-you,” the following things will help you go above and beyond to help you do something nice to show your gratitude and appreciation.

1. Write a personalized thank-you note.

Instead of buying thank-you cards, I’ve had my girls create their own from a young age. Before they could write, I would have them draw or scribble something on a blank note card. Then I would write the thank-you for them. Once they were writing, I would have them write the thank-you themselves.

Your note for a helper in the community can be as simple as, “Thank you for your help (insert how they help your family). You make our day brighter (easier, more manageable, etc.). We appreciate all you do.

2. Make a gratitude and appreciation rock.

Paint a river rock you or your child finds or purchase one at a local craft store to paint. You can paint a rainbow, a star, a heart, or anything else you or your child would like.

Or use your child’s fingertips to make a flower for a more personal touch. If you don’t want to paint the rock, try this tutorial using tissue paper and Mod Podge.

3. Deliver a flower.

If you live in an area where flowers are growing in your yard this time of year, pick a flower or two the next time you’re headed out or purchase a bouquet and hand out flowers to the people who help you to show your gratitude and appreciation.

4. Buy a gift card.

If you have money you can spare, buy a gift card from a favorite coffee shop or store. It doesn’t have to be for a large amount; five dollars is more than enough to show your gratitude and appreciation.

5. Put in a good word with their supervisor.

Take a few extra moments the next time you’re out to find the supervisor of the person who has made a difference for your family. Then put in a good word for them and let their supervisor know just how much you appreciate the help you’ve received.