With summer winding down and fall on the horizon, you’ve probably noticed that there are a lot of people asking you for money. From school fundraisers to local nonprofits to sports teams, it seems like everyone has their hand out.
And it doesn’t slow down as the end of the year approaches.
In fact, it seems to
increase.
During the holiday season, more and more people and organizations need some help to get through.
It can feel incredibly overwhelming to have so many people asking for money.
While you may have the desire and good intentions to help others, you may also be wary of handing out your hard-earned cash because you don’t want to be inundated with asks or feel like you’re being taken advantage of.
Thankfully, there are ways to get through the “fundraising season” with your sanity intact, in addition to supporting some worthy causes and keeping some money in your account. Here’s how:
Support Programs that Are Important to You
There may be a lot of places asking for money, but you don’t have to give to them
all. If you won the lottery and you need some tax write-offs, then give out as much as you can. However, since the chances of you being a lottery winner are fairly low, then you’ll want to consider supporting the programs that are most important to you.
Love animals? Support a local animal shelter.
Want to see young adults become future leaders? Support a mentor program.
Enjoy youth sports? Volunteer to be a coach or send money to help pay for new uniforms.
The list of places you can support is endless, so find something that really appeals to you.
Give Within Your Means
When supporting your favorite organization, you may want to do as much as you can to ensure they have enough funds. While this is noble, you also need to live your life and have money for the things you enjoy. Giving within your means will lower your stress levels, while also boosting your good feels.
Trust us:
any amount that you donate to your program of choice will have an impact—and it will be appreciated. Sure, donors who give large amounts of money get a lot of recognition, and you can certainly donate a large amount if you want, but people who give smaller amounts are just as valuable.
Encourage Others to Support
Telling your friends and family about your favorite organization(s) and encouraging them to support is a great way to increase the number of donations that are received. Remember, a large group of individuals giving smaller donations can still have a huge impact. Spread the word and get others as excited about specific programs as you are.
Being a generous person is commendable, but this time of year can be tough. It seems like no matter where you turn, someone wants some money from you. You
can be selectively supportive of your favorite programs and impact people in need. No matter what you give, it’s enough.
