We see so many people in need. But we can’t budget enough to give to all the things that pull at our hearts. Plus, we want to be sure our monetary gift will actually be used for people needing it, not CEO salaries. It would be nice, too, if we could be of help to people nearby.
We can. Think about doing something for people living in your own vicinity. Try www.GiveLocally.net. As little as $5 will help a suddenly jobless single mom in Santa Cruz pay her rent, or a young couple in San Jose pay for the wife’s much-needed 17th surgery (actual applicants). Search for a recipient in a category—single parent, child, family, someone needing medical or educational help, a local nonprofit. Or help a person or foundation in a near-by state. All recipients are prescreened, so you know they have a legitimate need. Once you’ve made your donation, follow your recipient’s progress on the GiveLocally website, seeing exactly what impact you’ve made on that person’s life. In fact, why not do this with your child? What a great way for him to learn how a little charity can help a person help himself.