Spread kindness close to home in five minutes or less

Across the globe, people take pride and pleasure in gathering together to give back to their community. There are so many ways to help those in need. The next time you’re ready to give, consider keeping it local. Your money and time often have greater impact when you give them close to home.

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• Get to know your neighborhood. Fresh transplant or long-time resident, everyone can learn more about their community and its unique needs. Go beyond online research by asking your social network about their favorite organizations. Offer to tag along the next time a friend volunteers.
• Consider your values. With so many good causes out there, it can be tough to pick just one. Think carefully about what is most important to you, how much you can afford to give, and how much time you are willing to commit.

Beware of scammers

Unfortunately, there are fake organizations that pose as non-profit charities. Before you fall in love with an organization, make sure it is a legitimate charity.

• Look for the organization’s 501(c)(3) designation. This shows it meets the Internal Revenue Service’s requirements for charitable organizations.
• Consult the watchdogs. These sites can help you uncover how your donation is spent: Charity Navigator | CharityWatch | Candid

Beyond your dollars

If your budget is too tight to make donations, and your schedule is too packed to give time, you can still make a big difference. Here’s how:

• Make connections. Look and listen for opportunities to connect new volunteers, donors, or customers with the organization. It only takes a few moments, but can make a huge difference in persuading future potential donors to give local, too.
• #GetSocial. Stories are powerful. Tell your Facebook family and Insta followers about your favorite charity. Be specific about what you love. Perhaps the organization has a remarkable dedication to their mission. Or, you can share a meaningful volunteering experience.
• Leave a glowing review. Post your recommendation on the organization’s social media pages for others to see. Consider sending a compliment through the “Contact Us” section on their website. A few minutes spent sharing your compliments and praise can lift staff and volunteers’ spirits countless times.

Whether you give time or money, a little or a lot, global or local, your gift matters. Just remember, when you share your money and time locally, your kindness and caring make a difference right outside your door.

Sources:
“Before Giving to a Charity,” Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice (consumer.ftc.gov)
“3 Websites to Check To Be Informed Before Giving to Charity,” Forbes (forbes.com), December 17, 2017