A lot of us are hardwired to want to make a difference. We see need in the world and we long to bring about change. And sometimes, it just feels good to be generous. But let’s face it, we don’t have the cash that a billionaire philanthropist has. I’m guessing you don’t snooze or swim in gold coins like Scrooge McDuck, either.
But making a difference and generosity doesn’t mean you are required to give billions. I mean if you can give billions, by all means knock yourself out. You can make a difference though with as little as $1 or maybe even items you already own or simply by volunteering your time. But before you dump off a bunch of old sweaters to someone who doesn’t need or want them, let’s evaluate the best ways to give back when you don’t have much to give.
Begin With Research & Empathy
I think we’ve all probably been guilty of assuming what others need. Many times, this comes from a good place. Maybe we seek to comfort someone by providing what we would enjoy in a same or similar situation. Or perhaps we have opinions or ideas about what might “fix” a problem or person. However, a lack of research and empathy often delivers unnecessary gifts or donations to the wrong organization. I can’t emphasize enough the need to get to know someone who is in regular association with a charity or organization to ask how you can most effectively be generous. This may mean you end up volunteering your time or your talents. Or it could mean you give specific items needed by the group or organization. Finally, you could end up being most helpful by simply giving cash to allow the people in charge to use to meet needs. But you won’t know without first asking.
Rally Your Community
Your contribution alone may seem lonely and ineffectual. However, when you inspire and encourage your community, you can do together what no one individual could ever do alone. A few years ago, I noticed the amazing non-profit Second Helpings, a food rescue program that feeds underserved communities, had run low on pasta. I posted a few photos online of the boxes we were collecting to donate and before I knew it, box upon box showed up at our door. I carted all the noodley goodness to the downtown Indianapolis location. Our small donation multiplied and several members of our community had the simple opportunity to contribute without making the drive. Whether you set up a donation page or simply call friends and family members to ask them to be involved, you have the ability to increase the impact of your gifts by uniting others in generosity.
Follow Up
After you’ve made a donation, it’s wise to follow up to ask if there’s anything else you can do. One time gifts can be fun, but lasting change is made when you partner with an organization over the years. You may not be able to meet every need, but you’ll likely meet a few. And the more you become acquainted with a charity, the more you begin to understand their operations, mission, and needs for the future.
Budget to Give
While I truly believe everyone should be generous, sometimes giving can be detrimental to your finances. If you don’t have the money in the bank to give and you can’t cover your basic living expenses, you’ll need to think of other ways to make a difference perhaps by donating your time or abilities to an organization. Giving on a credit card isn’t wise. Once you have a good handle on your finances, it’s wise to set aside a specific percentage for the purpose of being generous. You need a plan to be able to be a faithful giver in the community for many years.
Consider These Opportunities
Probably one of my favorite places to give in the community (besides our church) is to local schools. Again, you can ask a secretary or administrator what they find themselves needing most. This fall, I donated masks for our middle school to use in case a student forgot theirs for the day. We’ve also given food for the food pantry at the school, backpacks, and school supplies. But only after asking if these items were needed.
Donors Choose: Another wonderful way to support local educators even when you don’t have much cash is by making a monetary gift to Donors Choose. Teachers set up a specific project specific to their classroom. You can search by zip code or by specific teacher name or area of interest. Best of all, Donors Choose gives you $10 to give away to a project of your choice on your birthday.
Texas Storm Relief: February’s historic winter snap in Texas wreaked havoc on our neighbors to the south. A few organizations leading the way include the Salvation Army (select any TX city impacted by the winter weather), Save the Children, the American Red Cross (select disaster relief), Mercy Chefs, and Rebuilding Together. Many of these websites allow you to give as little as $1. Every penny counts.
Pick Up the Bill: The next time you go out to eat or shop at the grocery store or hit the drive through, pay for someone else’s bill. You can choose to remain anonymous or let the individual know. Oftentimes, our family chooses to pick up the tab for veterans, young families, teachers, or nurses.
Beware of Scams
Unfortunately, there are malicious people who long to take advantage of the generosity of others. If you feel a high amount of pressure or don’t have time to think about giving, pump the brakes. Ask someone you trust to help you investigate before you give. Look for the little lock before a URL on an online site. Have your wits about you when you read your email and answer your phone.
You can be generous friends, even if you’re not a billionaire. Even your spare change can make a difference in a world that desperately needs a difference maker like you!
My book is now available: Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After. You can also check out The Debt Free Devotional
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