It's Christmas, a time of year that magically inspires so many of us to give — even in this painfully tight economy. Whether it's time or toys, giving is truly about sharing the spirit of the season, particularly with those who need a little help, a little aloha.

With the tough economy resulting in many of us — our friends and neighbors — strapped for cash and paring down that holiday shopping list, it's the perfect time to consider the gift of time.

That gift of an hour or an afternoon — whether it's taking over some food for a neighbor in need, sorting donations at a local shelter, or shuttling food and other goods for your local charity — goes a long way toward building a better community. And now, more than ever, local charities and social service agencies could use the hand.

There are a variety of ways to get involved. You can follow your passion by checking the Web site of your favorite charity to see when they might need a helping hand. Rather than a gift exchange with friends, offer to give your time in their name at their favorite nonprofit.

Reach out to your local church or community center to see what's on tap there. Or visit the Aloha United Way's volunteer Web site

(volunteerhawaii.org). And, ideally, getting involved now with nonprofits, charities and other community organizations will help build a relationship that lasts well beyond the holidays, into the coming year. That's a worthwhile goal for all concerned.

So we invite you to join us this holiday season in service, as we work to give back to this community we all call home. You'll find editorial page editor Jeanne Mariani-Belding and editorial assistant, Stacy Berry, delivering food for Meals on Wheels in Pearl City and 'Aiea; deputy editor Stephen Downes will be volunteering at Family Promise of Hawai'i in Kailua; senior editor Anne Harpham just coordinated a gift-giving program for needy families in Palolo; and writer Vicki Viotti will be busy sorting food as a volunteer with the Hawaii Food Bank.

Together, as a community, we can make a difference during these difficult times. After all, isn't that really what being part of a community is all about?

Happy Holidays.