Fund Raising Ideas for Groups in the New Millennium!
Being Charitable on a Low Budget
by Lisa A. Koosis
They come in the mail almost every week. Whether its from a childrens charity or an animal charity or a cause for a cure, the mail is filled with worthwhile causes asking for a donation--and while many of us would love to give, it isnt always financially possible to give money to help out.
There are, however, other ways to help out when your budget is too tight to pull out the checkbook. Here are a few ideas:
- Let your money do double duty. Perhaps youre shopping for a birthday gift, or buying greeting cards. Many charities have associated stores. Why not buy a gift from them? Gifts purchased through charities are a great idea for two reasons. For one, a portion of the purchase price normally goes back to the charity. For another, its a great way to spread their message. Often gifts are themed to the charity. The Animal Rescue Site, for example, uses a purple paw print logo on much of the merchandise available in their store to spread their message.
- Spread the word. Still other companies such as Message Products, allow you to buy things such as checks, with the message of your favorite charity imprinted right on them. This way, every time you write out a check, youre spreading the word of your favorite charity.
- Donate goods rather than money. Consider local food banks all year round and not just at Thanksgiving. An extra canned item or two with each grocery shopping trip doesnt make much of a dent in the budget, but it can mean something to charities collecting food. Animal shelters are often looking for donations of old blankets and towels in addition to money and food. Hospitals and shelters for battered women are often thrilled with a donation of books. Homes for those with disabilities might appreciate a donation of videos or clothing.
- Donate time. Whether at the hospital, your local animal shelter, or a womens shelter, one of the most precious things you have to offer is yourself. Simply reading to a patient with no relatives, delivering dinner to shut-ins, or cleaning animals cages can be a great way to donate.
- Enter a walk-a-thon or similar event. Usually you pay nothing to enter these events. Rather, you collect sponsors--others who are willing to donate a set amount for every mile you walk (or whatever event-related milestone applies). These are wonderful events for friends or family to enter together, allowing you quality time together in addition to being able to help out a good cause.
Be willing to think outside the box when it comes to helping out a good cause. Sure, if you have the money, its wonderful to be able to donate, but for the rest of us, there really are other ways to help out a good cause.
Lisa is an author on http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Creative Writing.
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