Dr. Carla Ludwig’s Post

"I don’t know if this was your experience, but as a child, I remember waking up on Christmas morning to a tree lit with colorful lights and a few gifts waiting underneath. The excitement, the laughter—it was pure magic. But for so many families in our community, this moment doesn’t exist." Here at BOSS, we meet parents who spend sleepless nights worrying, not about what they’ll give their kids for the holidays, but if they’ll have a warm place to sleep or enough to eat. We meet kids who only know the holidays as another day of hardship without the joy, hope, and love that so many of us treasure. That’s why we created the Adopt A Family: Hope for the Holiday Drive—because everyone deserves to feel the magic of the season and to know they’re seen, valued, and supported. When you participate, you’re not just giving gifts—you’re giving hope. You’re showing a parent that they’re not alone. You’re reminding a child that they matter. This holiday season, let’s ensure that every family feels the warmth of community and the joy of the season. Whether you adopt a family, make a donation, or volunteer, your kindness can light up someone’s holiday. 📩 Learn how to get involved: https://lnkd.in/ggNpJmCe Let’s be the reason someone smiles this holiday season. #AdoptAFamily #HopeForTheHolidays #BOSSCommunity #HolidayGiving

As we enter the holiday season, I'm inspired by the creative ways our communities are coming together to lift one another up. The holidays are a time of joy and generosity, but they can also bring challenges, especially for those in need. I recently came across a couple of ideas that warmed my heart and sparked a desire to share more of these stories: 🎁 The Gift of Connection: In a local community post, someone suggested commenting about one thing you need but can't afford right now ~ and inviting others to help if they can. Whether it’s through sharing a connection, passing along an item they no longer need, or offering advice, it's incredible to see people stepping up to support one another in simple but meaningful ways. 🎄 A Tradition of Giving: Another family shared their beautiful tradition of gathering toys and stuffed animals their children no longer play with, placing them in boxes under the tree for "Santa" to take back to the North Pole. These items are then donated to shelters or toy drives to bring joy to children who need it most. What a wonderful way to teach children about generosity and kindness! Here are a few more creative ways to spread kindness this season: ▶ Organize a "Give and Take" board at work or in your community, where people can post needs and offers—whether it's a skill, service, or an item. ▶ Host a "Reverse Advent Calendar": Each day, add an item to a box to donate to a food pantry, shelter, or nonprofit. ▶ Check in on colleagues and neighbors: Sometimes, a warm meal, a shared celebration, or simply knowing someone cares can make all the difference. I’d love to hear from you ~ what are your favorite ways to give back during the holidays? Do you have unique traditions or creative ideas to help others? Let’s inspire one another to make this season brighter for everyone. #HolidaySeason #Kindness #GivingBack #HRLeadership #CHROPerspective

“I don’t have time.” We’ve all said it. To ourselves, to others, when life feels like a constant sprint. Work demands pile up, emails don’t stop, and the days blur together. Especially in December. But here’s what I’ve realized: when we make time for something outside of ourselves—like volunteering in our communities—it doesn’t drain us. It refuels us. I snapped this after spending it with Toys for Tots, helping local parents "shop" a field of donated toys so their kids wake up with a little more joy on Christmas morning. Much thanks to Bonita Fire's Bev Gervasi (center) who organized all the elves (even with my "Sleigh What?" shirt, I am still much less festive than Anna, chief elf, right.🌲) I walked away not with less energy, but more. More gratitude. More perspective. More clarity. And surprisingly, the work I “didn’t have time for” still got done. 💡 Here’s the truth: When you give to others, you’re also giving back to yourself. So if you’re feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or buried in work, I’d encourage you to try something counterintuitive: give a little of your time away. You’ll be amazed by what you get in return. How has giving back changed your outlook? I’d love to hear your experiences. Happy holidays all! #Volunteering #LeadershipInAction #CommunityImpact #happyholidays

🌟 Thanksgiving Reflections: The Art of Giving 🌟 As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a perfect time to reflect on what we’re most grateful for and how we can give back to others. For me, Thanksgiving isn’t just about gathering around a table with loved ones; it’s a reminder of the power of generosity, kindness, and community. Whether it’s through lending a helping hand, mentoring a colleague, or simply expressing gratitude, the art of giving is one of the most meaningful ways to make a difference. This season, I’m reminded of the many people who’ve supported me throughout my journey—friends, family, mentors, and even strangers. Their kindness and guidance have shaped who I am today, and I’m inspired to pay it forward. Let’s challenge ourselves this holiday season to spread joy and kindness in small but meaningful ways. Volunteer, donate, listen, support—or even just share a smile. After all, it’s the small acts of giving that often leave the biggest impact. What are you grateful for this Thanksgiving, and how do you plan to give back? 💛🍁 Wishing everyone a season filled with warmth, gratitude, and giving. 🦃✨ #Thanksgiving #Gratitude #TheArtOfGiving #GiveBack

I love this time of year as the holidays arrive in a whirlwind of traditions and events. Families share more time together, memories continue to be made and traditions continue to be had. Whether the tradition is to decorate together, to cook/bake the holiday meal(s) together, to have that perfect white Christmas, to invite your non-Jewish friends over to light the menorah and play dreidel, to volunteer in the community together, or to watch your favorite Christmas movie on Christmas Eve/Christmas morning in your jammies -- the tradition is something that you look forward to. Personally, no tradition is truly as extraordinary as one that benefits others. Regardless of the circumstances, there is the harsh reality that many families are struggling just to keep food on the table and a roof over their heads. There simply isn't enough left for these parents to even think about gifts for their children at this special time of year. Organizations that service the less fortunate find the holidays bring with them an escalated need for supplies, often experiencing bare shelves. The holiday season is the perfect time to reach out to others -- adopting a family or group; working at a soup kitchen or food pantry; donating toys and gifts,; helping pay a strangers monthly bill; etc. These are only a few suggestions -- there are so many other needs in our communities. In addition, we cannot forget to be sensitive as there are some people that the holiday season can be a very difficult (and emotional) time and they need us to reach out to them. Time is always a very valuable gift we can give others. The season of giving provides an excellent opportunity for kids of any age to make a difference and spread joy within their communities. One way we can all make an impact is to share your service work with others to inspire more people to get involved. Can you imagine if each of us extends ourselves - just a little - and helps to make a difference in Someone's life? #HolidaySeason #SeasonOfGiving #MakeADifference #Traditions #HelpingOthers #0thersBeforeSelf #Gratitude #Blessing

Closing the Year with Family, Gratitude, and Kindness 🌟❤️ As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to cherish the love and connection we share with family. These moments remind us of what truly matters—being present with those we care about most. Whether it’s gathering for a meal, sharing laughter, or creating new traditions, spending time with loved ones helps us end the year with warmth and gratitude. This season is also an invitation to reflect on the good we can do for others. Small acts of kindness—helping a neighbor, donating to a local charity, or simply offering a kind word—can make a world of difference. Reaching out to those who might feel alone or in need during the holidays can bring light to their lives and fill our hearts with purpose. The holidays are not just about giving gifts but about giving our time, energy, and love to make the world a better place. By embracing generosity and compassion, we can create ripples of joy and hope that reach far beyond our immediate circles. These acts of care and thoughtfulness are a beautiful way to close out the year on a positive note. Let’s make the most of this season by celebrating togetherness, sharing kindness, and building a sense of connection with others. Through love, compassion, and intentional actions, we can look forward to the new year knowing we’ve left a positive impact behind. 🌟 #FamilyTime #HolidayKindness #EndOfYearReflection #SpreadLove #MakeADifference #GratitudeMatters #HolidaySeasonJoy #QualityTime #ActsOfKindness #GiveBack #TogetherWeCan #LoveAndLight #CherishMoments #YearEndThoughts #FamilyFirst #Generosity #BeTheChange #WarmConnections #HolidayHappiness #SupportEachOther #BrightenTheWorld #KindnessCounts #HolidayGiving #Togetherness #PositiveActions #SeasonOfHope #SpreadJoy #CelebrateLove #EndOfYearGoals #InspireKindness

I proudly call myself selfish and giving. I am a mother who prioritizes my needs and my wellbeing and I do so NOT at the expense of anyone that I care about. In fact, I do so in a way that is in service to myself, yes, AND ALSO the people and things that matter most to me. My family matters most. I prioritize supporting them as much and as often as I can. I also prioritize ensuring other moms know they matter. And it's THE reason I volunteer my time weekly to a local nonprofit that seeks to create the "village" that moms desperately need. I believe we're here walking this earth to listen to ourselves and to align with the things that make us unique, but also connect us with others. If making your mark on the world includes connecting with and supporting mothers, then I'm... ASKING FOR YOUR HELP! 🙏 I am coordinating with Pampered Chef to benefit the nonprofit, Villa Advocacy Group, Inc. For all sales earned, Pampered Chef will donate 30% to the organization to help them help more moms. Here are FOUR ways you can help: 1️⃣ If you're in need of kitchen items, make a purchase! They have cookware to spices and everything in between! 🍳 2️⃣ If you're not in need of items yourself, make a purchase for a friend or family member! Getting a head start on holiday gifting isn't a bad thing, is it? 🎁 3️⃣ Don't want to purchase for yourself or as a gift for someone you know? No problem! Be a super secret mama angel and buy something from the wishlist! Villa will get wishlist items and pay them forward to mamas in need! 💝 4️⃣ Don't want to spend money right now? Understood! Comment below to help broaden the reach of the post and/or share this post with your network! 🔁 No matter how you help, I hope you do! We can all be more "selfish," while also doing good in the world. #manythanks #giving #authenticleadership #momsmatter

As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a great time to reflect on what truly matters: connection, kindness, and gratitude. Here’s a fun checklist to inspire you this season: 📝 Make a homemade gift for someone you love 📝 Try a new pumpkin spice recipe 📝 Donate clothes you no longer wear 📝 Decorate your home with flowers 📝 Bake a pie with your family 📝 Write someone a gratitude note Whether it’s giving back or embracing small joys, these moments can bring warmth to the holiday season. If this time of year feels overwhelming, know that you’re not alone. Reach out to us at admin@globalcounselingsolutions.org or schedule an appointment today. #ThanksgivingChecklist #Gratitude #MentalHealthAwareness #HolidaySeason

Thanksgiving is here. So, I'm taking a moment to reflect on all of the amazing things in my life, and reminding myself to never take a moment for granted. I'm so thankful for: -My beautiful and amazing daughters, who love so unconditionally and teach me lessons on life each and every day. - My incredible family who are always there for me and support me. -My health, which I have often taken for granted. -My home, that provides me with a safe and nurturing environment to grow and raise my girls. -A job in an industry I am passionate about, with incredible leadership (lookin at you Alex), fantastic team members, and a mission to revolutionize businesses through strategic projects. -Each and every one of you. Even if I don't know you personally, the stories, news, and lessons you share on this platform always inspire me. Not everyone has these things, and it's SO important to remember that. This time of year is perfect for being grateful but also for thinking of ways to give back. Whether it's volunteering, donating, or just checking in on someone you might not have talked to in a while. You never know what one simple act of kindness can do for another soul. Gratitude is one of those gifts that's even better when you share it. So, today I challenge you to spread some kindness and help make this season special for everyone you come into contact with. What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving holiday? And how do you plan to give back? #Thanksgiving #Grateful #GiveBack #CommunityLove

As the festive season approaches, it’s a wonderful time to reflect on the importance of giving back. Christmas is not just about celebrations and gifts; it’s about showing gratitude and making a positive impact on those around us. 𝗧𝗼 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝘆: Let’s take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication of our colleagues. Whether it’s through a heartfelt thank you, a small token of appreciation, or supporting each other’s growth, let’s make our workplace a more supportive and collaborative environment. 𝗧𝗼 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆: This season, consider volunteering your time, donating to local charities, or supporting small businesses. Every little act of kindness can make a significant difference in someone’s life. Together, we can create a ripple effect of generosity and goodwill. 𝗧𝗼 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆: Amidst the hustle and bustle, let’s not forget to cherish the moments with our loved ones. Spend quality time, create lasting memories, and express your love and gratitude. Family is the heart of the holiday season, and their support and love are invaluable. Wishing everyone a joyous and meaningful Christmas filled with love, laughter, and the spirit of giving. Let’s make this season truly special by spreading kindness and joy wherever we go. 🌟 #Christmas #GivingBack #Community #Family #Gratitude #HolidaySeason