There is often a notion that it is one’s obligation and responsibility to give to charity. Aside from giving to those in need, it often makes you feel good inside, too. However, mindlessly donating to any charity is a hollow endeavor. You might begin to feel like you’re being forced to do so and the act itself becomes less genuine. Moreover, you might be unknowingly supporting a corrupt and unethical group that is only posing as a charity.
That being said, you can bring back authenticity and true generosity in giving when you decide to actively support a cause that you’re really passionate about. If you believe in trans rights and advocate for their protection and existence, for example, then give to charities that focus on that. The same is true for any cause that you believe in. In addition to doing the right thing, here are some other reasons to give to a cause you believe in.
It’s Easier Than Ever to Do So
Before the advent of the internet and technology, it was more difficult to donate to charity because of lack of accessibility. Even if people’s hearts were in the right place and they wanted to extend their support to causes they believed in, they simply couldn’t due to a lack of mobility. With the rise of online banking and different payment platforms, donating to different charities is easy and can be done using mobile bank, apps like maya, and more. So, even if you can’t physically be there to offer your time as a volunteer, you can always provide your support from a distance by making a donation.
You Feel More Content and Happy
There is no denying the fact that donating to charity can really cheer you up. You get such an empowering feeling from knowing that you’re helping others in your own small way. An Oregon study has also shown that donating to charity triggers the brain to release dopamine and endorphins. As a result, you feel happier and more fulfilled. While donating to charity is usually emphasized during the holiday season, you don’t have to wait until that time to feel that warm and fuzzy feeling. Donate as often as you can to causes that you believe in, you’ll live a life that is merrier and more content.
Reduces Tax Burden
According to BIR’s Revenue Regulations No. 09-2020, cash donations may be deducted from one’s taxable income when these are given to the government or entities created by its agencies. This means that less of your income will be taxed if you regularly donate to a public charity. Just make sure to choose the right group to donate to so you know that your support is actually going to a good cause.
Keeps Small Charity Organizations Around for Longer
While charities do mainly rely on people’s donations, some struggle more than others. Some ethical charities receive very little support and are often funded by its own members. While this may be sustainable for a while, some charities never make it out of this financial bind and end up closing down. Sometimes, it’s better to donate your money to a smaller organization over a big name group because the former often needs your support more than the latter will. Look for a local charity in your community and donate to them or volunteer your time. Your acts of kindness will make a bigger difference than you think.
Boosts Employee Morale
If you are an employer or a manager, engaging your team members in a fundraising campaign or activity can really help bring them together. Plan something fun and exciting that you and employees can participate in, and contribute your earnings to a local charity. You can have a craft fair, a fashion show, a date auction, and much more. Not only will you and your staff come together to raise money for a good cause, but everyone can have a blast while doing so too.
Strengthens Your Own Values
Engaging in charitable work is a way to act out what you believe in. Acknowledging that you are in a position to help those in need makes you realize that it is your responsibility and moral duty to do so. Otherwise, you might feel empty for not doing something to manifest what you know to be the right thing to do. Actively donating to charity or giving your time in service to others is a great way to affirm your beliefs and strengthen your personal values.
Make an Impact on Those Around You
There is truth in the impact that one person can have on the people around them. Though you might feel as if what you do for others is insignificant, this is far from the truth. The people that you help out will surely appreciate your efforts and your small acts of kindness definitely do not go unnoticed. In fact, you may even be influencing your loved ones to follow suit. Your children may start saving their change to donate to typhoon victims, and your older relatives may start buying supplies to give to a local animal shelter. Additionally, you can also involve your friends and family in a group effort to give to charity. Working toward a shared goal can really bring you closer together.
All in all, you ultimately feel more at peace with yourself and with others when you choose to give your time and resources to a cause that you believe in. And in the process, you can encourage others to do the same, too. Start small first by deciding what is important to you, and look for an organization that aligns with your values. Eventually, you’ll begin to see why giving back truly matters.
