As we enter the holiday season this week there are often many opportunities to volunteer our time, talents, and money to worthy causes directed to those who may be less fortunate than ourselves. Collecting food for the hungry, toys for children without many resources, or working at a local soup kitchen all help.

Many people report that helping others feels good, often claiming that they get more out of the experience than those with whom

they help. However, what you might not know is that there is research that

has demonstrated that doing the right thing for others helps us to do the right thing for ourselves.

For example, many colleges and high schools offer students alternative Thanksgiving, Christmas, and spring breaks. At Santa Clara University where I am a psychology professor, these alternative vacations are very popular. Students work with the poor and marginalized of society during vacation.