With the winter holidays among us and quickly approaching, many find themselves in a constant state of joy and happiness. It is all too common, however, that we come across an Ebenezer Scrooge or a giant green Grinch who is full of anything but merriment.

No matter what holiday traditions you follow, try these tips to turn to those frowns upside down.

1. Send a Candy Cane Gram, sponsored by the Community Service classes, to a friend, acquaintance or even someone you’ve never spoken to. No matter who is on the receiving end, it is sure to result in a smile.

2. When leaving the grocery store, keep those extra coins in hand and deposit them in the iconic red Salvation Army bucket. Not only will you be making someone else’s day, but you will also be satisfied knowing that you’ve done a good deed.

3. ‘Pay it forward.’ Just at the members of Lafayette’s National Honor Society have been challenged to do, go a little bit out of your way each day to make someone else’s life a bit more pleasant. Whether its lending an ice-scraper to your neighbor in the parking lot when the winter weather is in full swing, or picking up the papers that just spilled out of someone’s folder, even the smallest actions can make a difference.

4. Volunteer your time. Soup kitchens, animal shelters and food pantries are always on the lookout for helping hands, so why not put a couple hours a week toward the betterment of those less fortunate?

5. Donate. Places such as Goodwill and the bright yellow clothing drop boxes stationed in school and church parking lots are the perfect place to put your gently used clothing, especially during the winter months. Pass on the trash!