When, Where, and What To Give

Posted onAuthorJoyce Moy

*Note: This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Sometimes it’s overwhelming. There is so much need. We get stuck in analysis paralysis.

Here’s my thought process if you’re considering giving today but don’t know what to do or where to give.

To me, knowing the stories of the organizations and the people impacted by my support can make a difference. While it’s not necessary, I know some organizations that are super transparent with their spending. You can see exactly where the money is going and that they are being good stewards in supporting the people they work with as well as the staff. It’s also important to know if the organization you’re giving to is an actual organization! I have heard from people during natural disasters that fake accounts were created as scams and those in need were getting 50% or nothing of the contributions. And just as I was typing the last sentence, I received an email with this article from the Patch with a warning to make sure you’re giving to legit causes.

So, this is probably part of the overwhelm. If that sounds like where you are, here’s where I suggest you start:

Give locally

In the big picture of things, it may seem like it’s too “small” but it’s not! Making a difference in the lives of those in your community can have a huge ripple effect. I’m positive you will find a local charity/non-profit to donate to AND find out the stories of actual people in your own neighborhoods. Ask a friend where they know of a place or a person who is in need. Maybe you can offer a meal to someone on your own street. This will give you a first-hand look and a front-row seat at what you are doing in faith and how someone’s story can unfold.

Give from your own passions

Reflect on the opportunities you have had to grow in the things you like to do as a kid or as an adult – as a hobby, just for fun, or for work. There are some who don’t have those same opportunities. Connect with an organization that encourages whatever it is you like to do. If you like to read, donate to the after-school programs. If you like animals, donate to an animal shelter. If you love art and music, give to programs who offer classes to low-income families. If you’re a foodie, consider a local soup kitchen. If you enjoy peace, give to those who work in war-torn countries. If you like a good side hustle, find a charity that works with budding entrepreneurs in countries with few opportunities. If you enjoy sports, donate to a program that works to create spaces to learn and develop athletic skills and talent. Well, you get the point.

Give globally

We aren’t all in places or seasons of life to go to the places where we want to help but with social media, some organizations do an amazing job of bringing us behind-the-scenes of what they are doing around the world. I’m finding that this can be a touchy subject so bear with me. If there is an issue on your own heart (and you’ve done your due diligence to know about the organizations in general), regardless of what someone else may say on the topics, there is an organization making a difference where we can’t necessarily go. It may be with the homeless, slavery, refugees, foster care, education, differently-abled/disabled, elder care, health care, environmentalism, racial reconciliation/peace, poverty, fair trade, clean water, and I’m sure this list can go on.

Give throughout the year

It’s not a one-and-done deal. The sad (but not hopeless!) truth is that there people in need through the year and groups actually want you to spread out your serving and donations and love through the year so they don’t become overwhelmed for just a day/weekend/month of the year but can be blessed by generosity when there is a lack of giving in the busyness of life the other months of the year. So if you can’t give on Giving Tuesday or during the holidays for whatever reason, it is okay. There is a place for prayer for those doing the work and for those in need. Consider giving another time. Set aside a small amount for a few places or a larger amount for one place. (See how planning and budgeting can work here? 😉 )

One More Thought…

The ideas I gave for buying during this time of year can work here as well…went we “Buy Nothing” or save money because of good deals or cash back, we can use what we save to be generous and give.

And if you’re still not sure about any of it, create your own giving opportunity! –> https://moychronicles.com/2018/03/11/care-package-packing

And if you’re still not sure and aren’t able to give financially, you can give the gift of your time. Read to a kid, serve meals, teach someone how to play an instrument, pack a hygiene bag, donate books or clothes… There are lots of ways to give.

Organizations to Give to…

I’ll add more another time but here’s my list from the other post to start us off…and I’d love to know of places/groups you like to support. Comment below.

*Note: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a tiny percentage if you make a purchase through my link at no extra cost to you. Read my disclosure policy here.