This document provides many ways for people to give back to their communities without spending money. It suggests donating time by volunteering at organizations like food banks, making phone calls to raise funds, sharing professional skills and expertise, organizing group volunteer activities, donating used goods, clicking links to donate online while shopping, giving up TV time to volunteer, donating extra garden vegetables, seeking out free items to donate, and donating remodeling materials to Habitat for Humanity. The document encourages readers to find creative ways to give back through their time, talents, items, or online engagement.
3. Give Time
Most organizations are always
looking for extra help. Donating
time is a great way to give back
to a cause or non-profit.
For example, check out your
local food bank and ask if they
need people to help sort
donations and pack boxes or
bags for recipients.
4. Give Phone Calls
Helping to raise funds, or
reaching out to members to share
news and updates via phone calls
is a very common practice for
charitable organizations.
Spending a few hours on the
phone is a great way to give back
especially if you enjoy talking on
the phone!
5. Give your Expertise
Everyone has a talent they can share.
Whether you’re an artist who paints
murals, a web designer who can build a
website for a non-profit, a Spanish
speaker who could teach a class, or
something else, your unique talents
can help. Make a list of things you can
offer including hobbies, talents, or
your skill set for your job. You can then
reach out to local organizations and
see how your skills can help.
6. Give as a Group
Looking for a team building exercise or an activity for a group?
Consider giving back. Whether it’s a school group, co-workers, or
a group of friends and family it can be a wonderful way to bond or
get to know each other. How about a group trip to help clean up
your nearest beach? Or bringing your friends to spend some time
at a senior home.
It could really brighten someones day!
7. Give Used Clothing,
Furniture, & Housewares
Not only is donating used goods a tax-deductible donation, but it’s
also a great way to reduce the clutter in your home allowing you
more space (and time) for other volunteer efforts!
8. Give with a Click or Purchase
Many companies are now offering ways
to give back without having to spend.
Whether it’s ‘liking’ them on Facebook,
using their coupons for purchases you
were already planning to make, or using
a special link for your purchases you can
give back by buying things you already
planned to purchase!
9. Give your TV time
The average American watches 3 hours of
TV/screen time a day. Giving up even half
that time will allow you some time to give
back. Many non-profits offer ‘jobs’ you
can even do from home!
10. Give Vegetables
If you grow your own garden consider giving fresh veggies
to your local food bank. If you don’t have gardening space
or know-how look for local community gardens or even
consider starting one at your child’s school.
11. Give for Free
If you have a passion for couponing consider
looking for freebie deals at your local stores.
Spending a little time seeking them out will
allow you to give in a big way to your local
food banks and charities.
If you receive freebies from your job you can
also give these items to local charities.
12. Give while Remodeling
Renovating or upgrading your home?
Consider donating used but working appliances, moldings, doors,
etc. to your local Habitat for Humanity ReStore.
They sell the old pieces for a profit which helps them build more
homes.
13. While giving back may mean spending a little
extra time or thought, it is incredibly
rewarding and well worth the ‘expense.’
What are some ways you give back that don’t
involve monetary donations?