Yesterday was Giving Tuesday, a global event that celebrates and encourages charitable giving. On Giving Tuesday, or any day of the year, anyone can learn about how to begin giving or ways to give even more. Giving need not be confined to just one day or one season. Practice philanthropy as a daily, weekly or monthly discipline. Remember donations do not always need to be in the form of money. Someone somewhere needs all gifts of goods, services and knowledge.
Here are meaningful ways for anyone to give to the world we share:
- Donate your brain! Not your actual brain. Teach a skill to someone who trying to better themselves, make a career transition or anyone that use your knowledge to lift themselves higher. In 2015 I will be teaching NJ ‘treps from various startups how to create buzz around their ideas.
- Volunteer at an animal rescue. Better yet, fall in love with a furry friend and take a pet or two home with you.
- Sponsor a coat or blanket drive. This is an easy one. Connect with a local charity or religious organization that can use or distribute gently used coats.
- Coach a sports team. Coaching is a way to help kids, enjoy yourself and possibly get some exercise at the same time. Experiences is appreciated, but not always required.
- Organize a food drive for a local food pantry.
- Participate in a community clean or other day of service. Get your employer to sponsor part of it, and maybe they will count it as paid time off!
- Donate blood!
- Of course, cash is king! Be sure to get a receipt!
- Double down by doubling your cash donation! Many corporations match contributions. Contact your human resources department and find out if your donation is eligible.