Maximize Charitable Giving

Giving money to charities and nonprofit organizations is a rewarding way to support causes you believe in. But with so many groups in need of donations the cost of charitable giving can really add up. And, while you may not be able to give to every cause equally, but there are ways to make the most of what you can donate.

Donating Money

Including a planned donation amount in your monthly budget helps you to stay on track of how much you can afford to give. Donations to your place of worship should be a part of this amount. If a new, donation worthy cause presents itself after you’ve reached your monthly limit, put it in the next month’s budget.

Buying Girl Scout cookies and other goods supports civic groups and gives you something of tangible value in return. Exercise caution with unfamiliar, organizations that solicit donations by phone. Before you give, ask the solicitor how much of your donation, if any, is used to pay his commission. And if you still want to give, do some research to find out how your full donation can go to the organization.

Donating Time

Volunteering your time and resources can be as valuable as a monetary gift to some organizations. Large not-for-profit organizations often have community chapters which are run, solely, by volunteers. Contact the groups you want to volunteer with to find out what their current needs are. Let them know what skills and experience you have that can assist them in fulfilling their mission.

Donating Goods and Resources

In addition to accepting money many charitable groups, especially small ones, have long donor wish lists. Often found on these lists is a request for computers and other office equipment that can help them to properly run their operations. An organization that collects blankets for the homeless may also accept winter clothing. Know what they need before you haul the entire contents of your attic to their door.

Make a list of your personal and professional resources, and it will be easier to come up with creative ways to maximize your charitable gifts. If you don’t have what a group needs you may be connected to others who do like a neighbor with a large van for picking up donations. Or, your church has community meeting room they can use in exchange for a small donation. If a charity you want to support needs more publicity, social organizations you belong to may benefit from doing joint promotions with them.

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