The winter holiday season is considered to be the most giving season of all. One way to help out this season is by participating in ServeAkron’s Winter Wishes Donation Drive.

This annual donation drive offers two ways for students, faculty and staff to give back and help those who are less fortunate.

Willing participants should pick up a tag from the Giving Tree located at the Center for Service and Leadership office on the first floor of the Student Union, across from the game room.

Once one or more tags are selected, individuals can help either Akron Hope or Akron Snow Angels.

The first way to help is with the nonprofit and student organization Akron Hope. There is an Adopt-A-Classroom Program, which provides gifts to classrooms at Helen Arnold Elementary.

Individuals can purchase gifts that value a total of $15, which include gifts such as: baby and Barbie dolls, kitchen sets, art sets, Play-doh, toy trucks and cars, blocks, action figures, sport balls and lego sets.

It is advised to keep presents valued at $15 to keep everything fair. Also, one should not provide stuffed animals, books, clothing, food and candy, a single coloring book with crayons, and absolutely no weapons will be accepted.

Another way to give back is through a nonprofit called Akron Snow Angels, which provides warm clothing to those who do not have access to such items.

To participate, purchase a set of warm winter accessories for the age range marked on the selected tag.

All gifts should remain unwrapped and be delivered with the snowflake tag no later than Monday, Nov. 30 at 5 p.m.

According to Serve Akron member and graduate assistant Dina Daltorio, The Winter Wishes Donation Drive has been held for the past four years at UA with the intention of supporting local nonprofits during the winter months. “It is amazing to know that we will be making a child’s wishes come true and bring a smile to their face,” Daltorio said. “This opportunity allows individuals to appreciate there is much to be thankful for and understand that it only takes a little to make a difference in the lives of others.”

To learn more information about how to help the community, visit uakron.edu/studentlife/serve.