Tis the season for giving...which is why your mailbox is filled with a myriad of requests for donations from local and national non-profits. The number of non-profits in San Diego is over 13,000 and there are more than 1.5 million tax-exempt organizations in the United States. So, deciding who to give to can be a daunting task. Here are five insights from experts in charitable giving and philanthropy that will help guide you towards making a meaningful donation.
Write your "philanthropic autobiography"
Give intentionally and develop a relationship with the charity by aligning a cause with your own values, passions and interests. Reflecting on the past year's highs and lows may help you determine a cause that is most meaningful to you.
Give to the moment, not in the moment
Natural disasters or humanitarian crises will often spur solicitations from charities in related fields. It's natural to want to give. However, if you are moved by the cause, see if charities with which you're familiar with are taking up that cause.
Decide if you want to make an impact locally or globally
Many organizations have a local and international impact. Dollars tend to go further for internationally, but local needs are also a great choice. Point is, don't consider locally or globally as an either-or question.
The Escondido Chamber of Commerce has a number of
non-profit members that will gladly partner with you.
Vet your charities
Good news is, there are organizations who are doing the leg work for you. Here are just a few resources for determining how the financial health of the organization and how the funds are used:
Think beyond dollars
Aside from your treasure, many charities can benefit from your time and talent. One way to search for a good fit is through
volunteermatch.org. There, you can enter your skills, passions and proximity. You will then be matched with and organization that is looking for you!
Catchafire.org matches people who want to do pro bono work with organizations that need assistance.
Whatever you choose to do, you will make an impact this season.
