Its that time of the year.. when everyone is focused on giving (and receiving) – not on what is needed but on things we want. I usually begin to feel guilty around November, thinking about how lucky I am, how much I have to be thankful for. Every year I vow to involve myself in my areas philanthropic scene.
This year I have finally become proactive and have sought out the right organization for me. During my search for the perfect non-profit, I came up with a small guide on selecting the perfect one for your strengths.
Choosing Your Charity:
- How would you like to donate: Time? Monetary? Everyday items? Decide how you would like to donate before doing your search, though this may change as you see the innumerable ways in which you can give.
- Choose something that hits home: Whether you’re fashion oriented and would love to gather gently-used prom dresses for a foundation that provides prom-wear for those unable to purchase them or you have a passion for the environment, research various resources such as those below to find the perfect fit for you. The more passionate you are about the cause, the more it will mean to you. A few places to aid you in that choice:
The Chronicle of Philanthropy Eventful Volunteering 101 Volunteer Match
- Donate extra clothes to your local Salvation Army or Religious organization.
- Pick up a tag on your community/church/religious affiliation Giving Tree. My Church hosts one each year for children who otherwise would not get the little gifts we all took for granted as children. Last year my little receiver asked for socks, Axe and a few video games. So simple, so easy to pickup at CVS, gamestop and TJ Maxx.
- Give blood. The Red Cross also provides more than one way to help if you’re unable to.
- Donate the rusty-hoopty that would otherwise collect dust in your driveway.
- Depending on your area, giving is as simple as shopping!
- Participate in community food drives and food banks.
- Donate through payroll. Elect to have a small amount deducted from each paycheck to the charity of your choice. Most charity websites have instructions on how to set that up.
- Serve or Deliver Holiday meals to those in need.
- Boxtops is a simple way to raise money for education by doing a little collecting and cutting.
- Vow to visit a Click-To-Donate Website everyday such as Free Rice or The Hunger Site
This year, it is more important than ever to take a moment and remember how lucky we are, then pass on some of what we have to those that may not be as fortunate. Remember to give.
