Give until it feels good

BY ANGELA JONES

There are so many people in need these days that it is hard to know where to start when we want to make a donation to a worthy cause. Fortunately, there are many organizations doing great work that can help us direct our philanthropic efforts. I live by the motto, “You cannot receive anything with your hands closed.” I believe, if you want to make a difference in your community or become a better person, you must either donate your time or give financial donations to organizations that help those who are less fortunate.

These organizations can be found throughout most communities and include public and private universities, the NAACP, and the National Urban
League, the United Negro College Fund, and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, to name a few. No matter how small you believe your discretionary spending budget is, it will grow once you get into the habit of giving to others.

I am often asked why I donate to so many organizations and my answer is always, “because there is a need.” At one point, I was volunteering more than I was working. While it is important to go to church to fellowship and tithe, it is also important to leave that “huddle” and share what was learned there with as many people as possible. When searching for an organization to give a financial donation or your valuable time, check with your local and state government to ensure that the organization you are considering
contributing to is in good standing.

Do not let a lack of knowledge about charitable organizations keep you from supporting those in need. A quick google search will give you a
list of charitable organizations in your community or you can donate to some of the well known national or even international organizations.
Once an individual starts donating their time and money in support of people and programs in need, it will pay off in spades. Not only will they feel good about their donations, their contribution will have a snowball effect throughout their community and the world. Others will notice what they are doing and want to give, as well. When people are uplifted out of a bad situation, they become contributing members of society. They pay taxes, lessening the burden on everyone else. Also, when a community works together to ensure that everyone has their basic needs of
food, water, and shelter met, crime rates go down and entrepreneurship
increases.
There is no amount that is too small to donate or too large. Maybe the reason it has been said that “It is better to give than to receive,” is because
giving feels so much better. Giving also has a domino effect that can improve the lives of more people than just the receive.