Patch Blog: Make 2012 A Year to Give

Recently a friend posted a link to the 12 Happiness Tips for 2012. A blogger at www.positivelypositive.com  listed small changes you could make in your life in this new year to make it a better one. Tips included getting creative, leaving last year's baggage behind and devoting time each week to you. Although I had incorporated a few of them into my life in 2011, one of her suggestions really hit home for me... 

Give. 

A simple four letter word that I hadn't really thought much about before. I definitely hadn't thought about it being a factor in having a happy life. For me it was simply something that always brought me a sense of satisfaction that I was able to do something to help someone else in this world. Perhaps it is the eternal optimist in me that makes me feel this way; but it is the realist in me that knows that now more than ever my dollars are needed.

 It is no secret that charities are all feeling the effects of this slumping economy. High unemployment rates means lowered amounts of cash that can be used to give to our favorite charities. When bills need to be paid and the pantry is nearly bare you become the charity that is in need. 

For those who have haven't been hit as hard these days, maybe you could brown-bag lunch once this month and spend your Dollar Menu bucks somewhere else. That means the contribution you would make would be about five dollars? Yes, I know you're laughing and probably thinking "She's a real philanthropist over here!" I prefer to consider myself a pennylanthropist or dollardonor thank you!

The biggest reason that holds many people back from giving is the thought that an amount like five dollars or even less won't do any good. Friends that I have talked too asked, "That's not really considered a donation is it? It is just a drop in the bucket of the money they really need."  Actually groups like the Salvation Army have survived for decades purely off of our drops in their buckets. Literally.

Seeing as the holiday season has ended and the bell ringing has ceased, how can you give? Via the internet of course. Where in the www should you begin? First think of a cause that means something to you. For some it is fighting hunger, preventing illiteracy or supporting your local Special Olympics chapter. A simple search will lead you to local organizations that are working for causes you hold dear. Visit their "About Us" page and take a look at their annual reports to educate yourself on exactly where your dollar(s) will be used. Low overhead and administrative percentage usually equal more money being spent on the actual program participants. 

After doing your due diligence, find the 'Donations" tab or link and pull out your debit card. Clickable options for donation amounts usually begin around the thousand dollar level so I recommend scrolling down to the bottom of the list. Hopefully there you will find the option 'Enter Other Donation Amount'. There's your chance.  Any dollar amount that you are able to give will garner you a big fat email of thanks and hopefully a little joy in your heart. 

One local groups who actually lists a five dollar donation option on their website is the Atlanta Film Festival. I am a fan of the festival and know that it is a huge opportunity for newcomers and veterans alike in the state of Georgia who work in the film industry. They were one of the first groups I made a donation to.

If independent films aren't your thing but music fills your heart there is always the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. For us news nerds there is always the tried and true National Public Radio (NPR) Atlanta Affiliate WABE. With larger donations to this station you get awesome geek gear like NPR coffee cups, tote bags and water bottles. 

If donating money isn't an option, spending a few hours sorting cans and packing meals at your local food pantry can make a huge difference. For those who are short on time and money, Publix has a Partners for Education program that donates a percentage of your purchases to the school of your choice. The cashier simply scans the school's key tag that you have chosen during every transaction. This program means no money out of your pocket, while still being able to make a donation to your local schools. Many retailers offer similar programs benefiting hospitals, youth sports and other causes. 

Beginning of the year closet cleanout projects result in unused clothes and housewares that clothing and furniture banks would love to have for families just starting out.    

Whether you donate time, money, or that prom dress you are still holding onto, try giving this year. The end result could mean a great 2012 for you and some amazing organizations who would love to have you make a drop in their buckets.