The holidays are upon us and most of us are spending our weekends running around town picking up gifts for family members or supplies for gingerbread houses or more holiday lights to finish your decorations. Not only are we thinking of ways to show our family and friends how much we appreciate them but also how we can make an impact on the community we live in.

This is especially important to those of us here at Amazing Moves. We are always looking for ways to give back or get involved in the Denver community, so this holiday season, our Denver movers are sharing their favorite ways to give back.

1. Pay It Forward

This is a really easy way to share a little love in your community. Whether you pick up the tab for the car in the drive-thru behind you on a Monday morning or buy a second meal at lunchtime for someone who can't afford to buy one for themselves, a little kindness goes a long way.

2. Donate Your Winter Items

Collect old coats, hats, gloves and boots that your family has outgrown or replaced over time and donate them to your local shelter. Especially in an area like Denver, you never know what the weather might bring, so providing your homeless community with a little extra protection in the winter months can make all the difference.

3. Bring Holiday Cookies To Your Local Nursing Home

Many residents of nursing homes don't have family close by that can come visit them during the holidays and it can be an extra lonely time for them. Make an extra batch of your holiday cookies and drop them by to spread a little extra holiday joy.

4. Transform Your Office Holiday Party

Many businesses have a Secret Santa or White Elephant gift exchange for their staff at the annual holiday party. It's a great way to reward hardworking teams and give everyone a chance to celebrate a great year. You can use this opportunity to give back to your community by switching up the traditional gift exchange and asking everyone in the office instead to bring a gift for the kids at a local shelter or other cause that is important to your team. Giving back as a company can be a powerful experience for both your staff and your community.

5. Surprise Your Mail Man

This treat doesn't have to be for just your mailman. Consider all the people who help keep your house running smoothly – your garbage men or UPS driver – they all play a role in maintaining the balance of your community. Show them your appreciation this holiday season with a nice card or homemade gift and it will be sure to make their day.

6. Stockings For The Homeless

Many shelters don't have the funding or the resources to provide everyone with the basic necessities. You can be a part of making a difference in your community by putting together stockings that include things like toothbrushes and toothpaste, water bottles, granola bars, gloves and socks, and anything else you notice may be lacking in your homeless community. Keep them in your car or briefcase and you can give them to the people you see on your commute to work or when running errands.

7. Cook A Little Extra For Holiday Workers

Police officers, firemen, and even hospital employees don't get to enjoy the same luxuries of time off during the holidays. You can spread a little extra holiday cheer by making a meal and taking it to your local station. This way those that are working hard so that you can spend a safe holiday with your family and friends can enjoy a home-cooked meal, too.

These are our favorite ways to show our appreciation for our community during the holidays. Do you have any traditions? Share them with us using the hashtag #DenverHolidays.