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Charitable holiday giving

For many of us, December is a time of celebration. As we gather with family and friends around bountiful tables and piles of presents, consider giving the gift of time, goods or money to support those who could use a helping hand.

Volunteer
Serve food at a shelter, visit retirement community residents, clean up parks and public trails or raise money as a walk participant. Your time is invaluable to charitable organizations and the people they serve. Any help you can provide will have an impact.

Not sure where to start? Visit Volunteer Match. Simply enter your zip code and receive a list of opportunities in your community.

Make a donation
Help provide food, clothing, shelter and other necessities by donating money, canned goods, and gently-used clothes, furniture or household items. Charity Navigator’s Donor Guide can help you connect with an organization or worthy cause. Do you have extra airline miles? Many programs allow you to donate them to charities, for various purposes.

Shop with purpose

Stores often partner with an organization(s), making it easy to support a worthy cause. Shop retailers and buy products that allow you to add a donation to your purchase or donate a percentage of the purchase to non-profit organizations.

Show your support
Purchase t-shirts, hats, mugs and other items directly from your favorite non-profit organization. Not only will you help support the cause, but you’ll help raise awareness whenever someone sees you wearing or using the items.

Give the gift of charitable giving

In lieu of a gift, consider donating to your recipient’s favorite charity. It’s a thoughtful way to honor them while doing good. Consider:

  • Local community programs
    Support programs that help provide clothing, food or housing support for community members in need
  • National charitable organizations
    Find organizations like United Way, Goodwill, The Salvation Army or others that support programs to help specific at-need populations
  • Political causes or religious organizations
    Support your recipient’s favorite cause, or contribute to their church in their name
  • Scholarship funds
    Make a donation to a scholarship fund in your recipient’s name

This article is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide specific financial, investment, tax, legal, accounting, or other advice and should not be acted or relied upon without the advice of a professional advisor. A professional advisor will recommend action based on your personal circumstances and the most recent information available.

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