5 ways to welcome this December
This holiday season offers a unique opportunity to strengthen our connections with the people around us. If you’re looking for simple, meaningful ways to show up for your community, here are a few ideas to try—whether that means gathering with others, learning something new, supporting newcomer entrepreneurs, or offering a small gesture of encouragement.
Even one act of welcome can help create a stronger sense of support and belonging for newcomers and long-time neighbors alike.
5 ways to welcome this December
1. Host a culturally inclusive holiday gathering
Inviting newcomers or neighbors into your holiday traditions can feel a little unfamiliar at first—especially if you celebrate in different ways. But it can also be a beautiful opportunity to learn from one another.
With a bit of thoughtful planning, you can host a gathering that honors different religions and cultural traditions and helps everyone feel comfortable, included, and genuinely welcome.
2. Learn about another culture’s tradition
One of the simplest ways to build connection is to get curious about how others celebrate. Taking time to learn about different holidays and rituals helps us understand one another—and creates openings for real conversation.
Here are three rich traditions you can explore this season:
3. Send a message of welcome
Sometimes the smallest gesture matters most. A short message of welcome can offer newcomers facing uncertainty a sense of kindness, connection, and belonging.
As newcomers navigate new challenges and wonder what comes next, your message can be a reminder: you’re not alone. Send a message today and help surround newcomers with support.
4. Shop local businesses that support newcomers in our communities
Holiday shopping can also be a chance to make a direct impact. When you shop with purpose, you can uplift newcomer entrepreneurs—and strengthen the communities we all share.
Celebrate small businesses that benefit newcomers and the communities that support them.
5. Discover recipes that welcome
Food has a special way of bringing people together. Sharing a meal rooted in another culture can be a simple but powerful act of welcome—one that sparks conversation, opens hearts, and helps build friendships.
Explore recipes from around the world and find something new to share this season.
Keep the spirit of welcome going all year round.
If you take even one or two of these steps, you can help create a more welcoming community. Every effort adds up—toward more connections and moments of compassion that can make all the difference in someone’s life.
If this resource was helpful, share it with friends, coworkers, faith groups, and neighbors so we can spread belonging, joy, and welcome this holiday season and beyond.
