There are so many great organizations in need of funds, volunteers and other support, right now and always.
Honestly, sometimes I find it frustrating that I can’t help them all.
I’d love to be a big-time philanthropist like Melinda French Gates – but I’m sure even she has to prioritize and focus her efforts. No one person can do it all.
How do you decide where to donate, volunteer or provide other support?
It can be tough to know who needs help the most. I find it helps to think about giving in terms of time, talents and treasure.
I am passionate about many causes and concerns. Some organizations get my time, like The Trevor Project, where I spend three hours each week volunteering to help end suicide and support mental health for LGBTQIA+ young people.
I also spend time with a local community organization, Parent Diversity Network, that is working to ensure all kiddos in Olentangy Schools have a great experience, a sense of belonging and culturally diverse education regardless of their race or religion.
Some organizations get my talents as a professional communicator and marketer, like our local county parks district, where I serve on the board of Preservation Parks Foundation. Others get my talents as a blogger; we’ve been longtime supporters and champions of Nationwide Children’s Hospital and the On Our Sleeves movement for children’s mental health.
And some organizations get my treasure, which can include monetary donations or even donations of gently-used clothes and household goods. In addition to the organizations mentioned above, we are fans of the Humane Society of Delaware County and other pet rescue organizations and support them whenever we can.
Passive Giving
There are other quick and easy ways to support your favorite charitable organizations. For example, did you know that you can provide financial support to your favorite charity through the purchases you make from both Amazon and Kroger?
Amazon Smile is a simple way for you to support your favorite charitable organization every time you shop with Amazon, at no cost to you. Amazon Smile will donate 0.5% of your eligible purchases to the charitable organization of your choice. To shop at Amazon Smile, simply go to smile.amazon.com on your web browser or activate Amazon Smile on your Amazon Shopping app on your iOS or Android phone (found under settings in your app).
Kroger grocery stores also provide a similar feature. If you visit Kroger Community Rewards, you can select a local school or charitable organization that will receive funds each time you use your Kroger loyalty card. I only found out about this program recently, and that’s actually what prompted me to write this post.
Not selecting a charity through the Amazon Smile and Kroger Community Rewards programs is like leaving corporate money on the table. Every little bit adds up – and both organizations give you a running total so you can see how your purchases are benefiting your chosen charity.
Be sure you identify your charity today for each program. It’s a great way to maximize your support for your favorite organizations doing important work!
How do you choose which organizations you will support through time, talent or treasure? I’d love to hear your tales of giving in the comments below or over on Facebook or Instagram.
