How Your Business Can Help Those In Need

For most small businesses, especially in the retail world, right now is your busy time of year. And whether or not you're looking at a big finish sales-wise, it's a good time to stop and think about charities that directly help those in need as the winter months arrive. Here are a few to consider:

Toys for Tots: Find a drop location or a local campaign office. All it takes is a quick trip to the toy sections at Target, Wal-Mart or the mall, and you've made a big difference in a child's holiday.

Heifer Project: Your donation provides valuable animals and livestock to needy families in third-world countries. A gift of a goat or chickens can bring a family the resources to pay for medicine, send children to school and escape poverty.

America's Second Harvest: Serving all 50 states and Puerto Rico, America's Second Harvest is the largest food bank network in the country, with more than 200 food banks and food-rescue organizations involved.

Charity Navigator: Not sure where to donate? The charity navigator "evaluates the financial health" of America's charities so that you can make a wise choice for your donation.

If your business has already donated time, food or toys already this year, share your stories here.