Six Creative Ways to Give Charitably

Charity is a great way to tell the world you love it. We all want to leave the world in a better place than when we got here, don’t we? When you put in more than you take, your contribution makes a difference for sure, no matter how small your actions may be.

If it’s in your heart to give, you need to seek out a cause or charity that resonates with you. Once you find a cause worthwhile, you will find it easier to contribute with your time, talent, and treasure. Make sure to always give with a cheerful heart because your donations have the power to change the lives of people in need.

If you are looking to give in a unique way, there are several activities you can do. Let’s go over some creative ways to give charitably.

One – Donate Time

Not all causes need a check. Many causes just want a community to join together and roll up their sleeves. If you are looking to help a cause but don’t have the funds, reach out to charities and offer yourself as a volunteer.

It could be a skill set that you have or one you are willing to learn. It may be some manual labor that is needed or an ear to listen to those that want company and comfort. We all have a finite amount of time. If you would rather spend an evening or two helping out at a charity rather than watching reruns of The Office, they would gladly take you.

Two – Give Through Your Pet

Animals have a unique ability to comfort those who need it. Some say they can instinctively sense sorrow and pain and are drawn to it. If you have a loving pet like a dog or cat, why not use their compassion to support someone looking for it?

You can call your local senior homes or hospice centers to see if they are interested in a visit from you and your pet. There are also organizations set up to do this if you would rather work through them. Giving this special gift of animal interaction can reduce stress and anxiety as well as offer hope to those in need.

Three – Donate to Your Local Church

The churches in your community, such as United Church of Canada, are on the frontlines of helping people. They don’t just send money across the globe and organize missions abroad. Usually, they will have a few local causes they help out with.

You can call and find out what they are doing in your community and support that. You don’t even have to attend that church or any church for the matter. What does matter is that you are supporting a cause that you believe in. You may find that these church organizations believe in charitable work like you do, and you want to be part of their community.

Four – Open Up Your Pantry

Most of us have a fridge and pantry stocked up with food. Your pantry can be a place where unused items accumulate. I’m not just talking about that can of chickpeas. In your kitchen, you will have lots of leftover items from bulk buys that you can spare.

Get out a few grocery bags and go shopping in your own cupboards. It’s a great opportunity to do an inventory and clean out, so fill up the bags and head out to your local food bank. They are always eager to get donations and many families need basic food supplies to keep fed. You can do this 3 – 4 times a year, helping someone else who has fallen upon hard times.

Five – Buy Someone a Meal

This is a fun one and so easy to do and it doesn’t break the bank. If you are looking for a quick way to change someone’s day, buy a stranger their meal. This works in the drive-through of any fast-food restaurant.

When you go to pay for your items, tell the cashier that you want to pay for the food of the vehicle behind you. First off, they will be shocked. It will put a smile on their face and an impression on their heart. As you pull up to the next window and wait for your food, you get to watch the reaction of the person behind you as they go to pay.

You may get a wave or a honk and definitely a smile. This kind of small offering brightens the day of any person. And you just may be giving someone hope that there is kindness in this world. In turn, they may do the same thing down the road.

Six – Help Family and Friends

There is always an opportunity to help those closest to you. You should know when someone is feeling overwhelmed. If you sense a need, fill it. This may be going shopping for your mom or showing up with dinner at the front door of your brother’s place. Maybe you can pick up your friend’s kids and take them off their hands for an evening.

Show up to your niece and nephews’ practices and games and give cheerful support. This type of love lasts a long time and shows people that you genuinely care.