Make this holiday season a memorable one! From unique local gifts to ways to give back and connect with your community, celebrate the season and bring that energy into the new year.

1. Unwrap some great JCPRD gift ideas

From Johnson County Museum memberships and unique finds at the Museum Store or to gift cards which can be used towards programs, shelter rentals, memberships and a variety of permits, JCPRD offers something for everyone on your list. Learn more about Johnson County Park and Recreation District gift cards at jcprd.com/250/Gift-Cards.

2. Handmade gifts with a cause

Johnson County Developmental Supports empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through creative programs.

• Shop Papercrete Works for unique outdoor, home decor and gift items made with a mixture of cement, water and recycled paper at jocogov.org/papercrete-works.
• Explore the Emerging Artists Program for original paintings and other art pieces in a variety of mediums in person at the Johnson County Arts and Heritage Center or online at jocogov.org/emerging-artists.

3. Johnson County swag

Want a gift that shows off some Johnson County pride? Johnson County Government has launched an online merch shop with a variety of county-themed apparel and other items. Johnson County receives no profit from this shop and has kept all item prices at base product cost. Browse and shop at jocogov.myspreadshop.com.

4. New Year, new reads

A Johnson County Library card gives you access to guides on self-care, fitness, cooking and more. You can also find resources for projects you’ve been wanting to start. Browse online or in person, jocolibrary.org.

5. Recipes worth remembering

Find your next favorite cookie or holiday dish with the Library’s cookbooks, eBooks and culinary magazines. Read curated lists of book recommendations at jocolibrary.org.

6. Films for a winter night

Stream holiday favorites on Kanopy, free with your Library card, or check out DVDs for a movie night without another subscription. jocolibrary.kanopy.com

7. Keep your holiday memorable for the right reasons

Never pour fats, oils or grease down the drain. When poured down the sink, grease sticks to the inside of sewer pipes where it solidifies, and builds up over time, restricting or clogging wastewater flow. Get disposal tips at jocogov.org/fog. You can also recycle used or unused cooking oil, like turkey fryer oil, at the Johnson County Household Hazardous Waste Facility by appointment. For more info, visit jocogov.org/hhw.

8. Spread kindness and donate locally

Rising grocery costs have increased the need for food assistance in our community. When shopping for your holiday meals, consider picking up a few extra items to donate or browse our AHS Food Pantry Amazon Wish List to help neighbors in need enjoy holiday meals, too. Give today: jocogov.org/ahsfoodpantry.

9. Give the gift of service: Volunteer!

Many older adults who receive Home-Delivered Meals share that our volunteers are often the only people they see each day. Spend your lunch hour once a week delivering hot, nutritious meals to homebound seniors and help us fight social isolation with a friendly face and kind word. Learn more: jocogov.org/AHSvolunteers.

10. Caregiver support tools

Many adults today are part of the “sandwich generation,” caring for both children and aging parents. Johnson County Aging & Human Services has partnered with Trualta to provide a free, online caregiver education and support platform offering evidence-based tools and guidance. Explore resources: joco.trualta.com.