Give Back This November: Simple Ways to Help Others
Giving during November is a powerful way to embrace the spirit of gratitude and generosity that defines the season. Whether through volunteering or donating resources, acts of giving help build stronger communities and spread kindness as the holidays approach.
With millions of Americans struggling, charitable giving is more important than ever. According to Feeding America, 47 million people in the U.S. face hunger. Donating to organizations like Feeding America is a great way to help people get the food they need during difficult times. Volunteering, donating money or food, and starting a fundraiser are some ways you can give this season through Feeding America.
Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that helps families build and improve places to call home. Volunteer opportunities include volunteering in your community, traveling with Habitat for Humanity, long-term volunteer opportunities, group volunteer opportunities, and special build events. You can also make donations, including one-time and monthly money donations, goods and materials, cars, and more.
Another well-known giving organization is United Way. For more than 135 years, United Way has shown up to build stronger, more resilient communities through volunteering, public policy, giving, and more. If you’d like to get involved, you can give in several ways, from donating money, stock, and Bitcoin to volunteering. United Way’s reach impacts 1,100 communities across 34 countries.
If you have never volunteered or donated before or are not sure where to start, here are some tips::
- Give locally. Giving locally is a thoughtful way to support the community where you live.
- Before you donate goods and materials, contact the organization to find out precisely what they need.
- Give to organizations you can trust by doing your research on them. Charity Navigator does some of that work for you. With over 225,000 charities rated, Charity Navigator’s ratings highlight the cost-effectiveness and overall health of a charity’s programs, including stability, efficiency, and sustainability.
Outside of an organization, other ways to help someone in need include offering to pick up groceries, cooking a hot meal, or taking them to and from appointments.
Here are additional organizations to help you navigate donating and volunteering:
“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” ~Winston Churchill
