Published: Charitable Giving in Tough Economic Times - Blush Magazine, November 2010

Money Matters - Charitable Giving in Tough Economic Times
Kim Chavis, CPA

Are you looking to serve your community but just don’t know how and where to start? Maybe you know where you’d like to serve but you’re just not sure that you will be able to contribute financially?  If you’re like many Americans, the current economic conditions have caused many to focus on their personal finances and family budgets.  Charitable giving is often one of the first items cut from a budget.  While some are fortunate enough to be able to maintain their level of giving, that’s not the case for everyone.  Unfortunately, the need for charitable services increases during tough economic times.  There are countless ways to support your local charities and communities without making a monetary donation.

People and their time are invaluable resources to charitable organizations.  If you are not in a position to give money, consider donating your time and efforts to an organization of your choice.  Make charitable giving a family affair.  If the event allows, consider inviting your spouse, significant other, and children to help support your favorite charity event or cause.  Your contribution of time is just as important as any check you could write, especially if you can’t afford to do so. 

Many organizations are in need of gently used clothing and household items.  Why not spend a weekend cleaning out your closets and pantries for items that you no longer use or plan to use?  You could clean out some of your cluttered space and help families that will certainly make good use of your donated items.  Check out the Goodwill’s website at www.goodwill.org for convenient drop off locations and time.

Finally, if you’re fortunate enough to be able to provide a monetary donation, consider giving to an organization that is recognized as a 501(c)(3) by the Internal Revenue Service.   This will help to ensure that your monetary donations are used for its intended purpose and at its maximum capacity.

While these tough economic times may limit your level of giving, why not give of your time, your gently used items and most importantly, your heart?

Click here to read the article at Blush Magazine's website.