Financial charitable giving is something that most households in America participate in on an annual basis. It’s why over $300 billion is donated to non-profits every year — with over $200 billion of that coming from individuals and families. While money is an essential part of keeping the charitable wheels turning, there are plenty of other ways to give that don’t require any check writing, debit-card swiping or stock donating. Of course, sacrifice of some kind is still involved, but your wallet won’t feel a pinch. For the generous people who are short on cash, here are ten ways you can give to charity without donating a dime.
Give Blood
With some exceptions, almost every adult can donate blood, and once you locate a local donation center and make an appointment, it can take as little as ten minutes of your time.
According to the American Red Cross, someone in the United States is in need of blood every two seconds, which means that anyone who is willing to donate and able, should do so. To locate a blood donation center near you, click here.
Volunteer
The great thing about being a volunteer is that you can donate your time to almost anything under the sun. Do you enjoy animals? Volunteer at your local animal shelter. Would you like to help the homeless? Work a shift at a shelter or soup kitchen. In many cases, your particular skills may actually be of great help to a local charity. Whether you’re an electrician or an accountant, you can volunteer your time and help further a cause you believe in.
Be an Organ Donor
One of the easiest and most meaningful ways you can give back is through organ donation after death. Over 100,000 people are on donor waiting lists around the country, and each day 18 people die without getting a life-saving transplant. Extend someone else’s life by being an organ donor.
Donate Your Car
If you have a car, boat or RV sitting in your driveway that you don’t use much anymore, don’t bother to sell it; donate it. When you donate a car, not only can you get a tax write-off, but you’ll be free of the hassle of trying to sell your vehicle, and you’ll be helping a good cause in the process.
Donate Used Items to Your Local Thrift Store
Not only do thrift stores provide hundreds and thousands of jobs for people across the country, but many of them are also actively involved in charitable and advocacy work for vulnerable populations. Anytime you donate clothes, books, furniture and other items to your local thrift store, you are supporting your local economy, de-cluttering your space and helping those less fortunate.
Donate Your Hair
If you’re planning on cutting off at least 10” of hair anytime soon, talk to your hairdresser about donating it to Locks of Love or Wigs for Kids. These organizations take hair donations and craft beautiful wigs for children experiencing hair loss from cancer treatment and other medical reasons.
Make Something to Give Away
Are you a quilter? Do you love to knit or crochet? Why not take your penchant for crafting and put it toward a charitable cause? Many charities gladly accept handmade items. From blankets and clothing for people to blankets and clothing for injured or sick animals, your creative side and your generous nature make ideal teammates.
Raise Awareness
If you spend a significant amount of time online, one of the easiest ways you can help out a cherished cause is to help raise awareness through your blog and social media. Post about National Public Radio’s fundraising needs. Blog about the work that your local Girl Scout troop is up to. By letting others know about the organizations whose work you believe in, you help further their efforts of reaching others with their message.
Vote
One of the most powerful ways you can give to charity without expending any money is through voting. Many of the organizations you support have lobbying efforts underway in local, state or federal government. Stay informed of the votes that impact the missions of the organizations you believe in, whether that mission involves teen truancy or animal control legislation. By voting your conscience on matters large and small, you can help make the work of your favorite charities easier.
Giving back doesn’t have to be another monthly bill. You can help make the world a better place just by giving of yourself, your talents, your body, your time and countless other resources.
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