Charity shouldn’t be a holiday affair

Approximately 50 percent of all charity donations occur during the six-weeks before Christmas. While one reason for this might be due to our tax codes, the holiday season is a period of charity and giving. During this time, we enjoy the wonderful rewards of giving by sharing presents with our loved ones and giving to the less fortunate. While the culture of giving during the holiday season can bolster non-profit organizations and those in need during the holiday season, the need for charity doesn’t end on Dec. 26.

In a world that seems to be driven by the goal of generating maximum profit, philanthropy can provide our culture an ethical balance between the haves and have nots. To raise the lowest of our society and make them more productive is the goal of charity, and it’s more than simple material donations. Charity, when used effectively, can greatly impact the lives of the recipients and raise them to a social status where they no longer need aid. I would hope that any educated American would demonstrate charity and mercy within their community.

While we often think of charity in terms of financial donations, true charity demands a broader approach. Many social conditions cannot simply be fixed with money, but require the actions and dedication of passionate volunteers.

Being a charitable individual doesn’t require financial gifts, and there are many charities that would appreciate the gift of time or labor just as much as financial donations. On a college student’s budget, you can still fit charity into your daily life.

What charity should you get involved with? This all depends on who you want to help. The beautiful thing about charity is that you can pick causes and organizations that you are passionate about. If there is not a charity that addresses the needs you see in your community, consider starting one.

Consider your talents and how they might be best used to support your charitable goals. Are you a really friendly person? Consider spending time interacting with seniors in a retirement home. Are you a really good party planner? Consider helping a local charity organize a charitable event. Are you a handy with tools? Consider donating some of your labor to a charity building houses. These are all examples of how you can increase your charity activity without requiring a single penny.

I would hope that every individual would seek to build a stronger community. Be known as a charity member in your community and you will be held in high-regard and enjoy the internal rewards of helping others. Make charity a part of your year-round activities because the need for charity in our community far exceeds the short holiday season.