The holiday season is rapidly approaching. It is a joyful time of year when we gather with family and friends, give gifts and reflect upon what we are grateful for. It is also the perfect time to help others. But, every day is a perfect day for that.

This year, if you want to support a worthy cause or help someone in need, try one of these six fundraising ideas. Alongside volunteering, fundraising is a great way to give back.

Medical Emergencies

Help a relative, co-worker or friend get the medical treatment he urgently needs. Launch a crowdfunding campaign on his behalf. Gather a team of family and friends to promote and manage the campaign. It is a compassionate way to say I am here for you.

Crisis

Life happens. If you know a family that has lost everything in a fire or natural disaster, donate to their fundraiser or start one for them. FreeFunder donates $50 to campaigns that reach 500 Facebook Shares. So, spread the word to help someone recover from a devastating loss.

Children

Who can resist a child's smile or delightful laughter? Children are our greatest asset. Help make their journey a little easier. Raise funds for an organization such as Boys & Girls Clubs of America or Toys for Tots. Make a child smile.

Performing Arts

Most cities have a community theater or performing arts center. Launch a crowdfunding campaign to support a local play, dance troupe or drama club. Rally your community to support local artists. 

Pets

Do you love animals? Start a fundraising campaign for your local animal shelter or the Animal Humane Society (AHS). AHS does not receive any state or federal funding but these organizations are committed to helping animals in our communities. Your donation will keep an animal healthy and hopefully help find it a new, loving home.

Travel

Traveling, even for nonprofits, is expensive. Support a charity with high travel expenses. Humanitarian organizations, such as Doctors of the World, travel the globe helping others. Help them get there.

Go out and raise funds for a charity or cause today. It always makes a positive impact.