Participate in the Tradition of Giving

89% of American households make a contribution to one ore more charitable organization.
The average gift of contributing households is $1,620, or 3.1% of income.
According to Giving USA, individual Americans gave over $179 billion to charitable and community causes in 2003.

The nonprofit sector cannot take the place of government programs, nor can it single-handedly cure the ills and disparities of society. But each of us can make a difference in a small way, in our own sphere, and can find ways to help that will make our efforts worth the time and trouble we invest in them.

Some of the Best Reasons to Give

Some of the best reasons to give are the ones you may not have considered - the ones that make it worth your while to go that extra step. People who have contributed money to a charity report that they get back in satisfaction and joy more than they ever expend in inconvenience or effort - what you get back is immeasurable. You'll also receive these benefits:

Giving helps keep taxes and other costs down.
Giving returns to society some of the benefits society gives you.
Giving lets those who have more, share with those who have less.
Giving encourages more giving - you can set an example for others.

It's What in the World You Can Do!

You might be thinking, "The little bit that I can do will never help much!" or "What in the world can I do?" If you've ever spent ten minutes reading a book to a lonely child, you know that even that small amount of compassion and attention can make a world of difference. No one person can solve the world's problems, but what little you do can make your little corner of the world-or one far away from yours a happier, healthier, safer place to live for those who need your help. Each of us can right a wrong, fill a plate, visit a shut-in or clean up a park - and that does make a difference for us all!

Here are some tips for safe and effective charitable giving.

1. Find your match: The Internet has made it possible to research, access and donate to more charities than ever, so take advantage of the choices and find causes closest to your heart. At www.NetworkforGood.org and www.JustGive.org, you can search from the GuideStar database of more than one million charities by topic, name and zip code.

2. Know where your money is going: Make sure the organization you want to support is in good standing by looking at an organization’s financials and ratings on our site and understand how your gift will be used.

3. Stretch your dollar: Check to see if your employer has a matching gift program. It can make your donations go further.

4. Give your time: One of the most rewarding things you can do is donate your time and skills to a beloved cause and feel the satisfaction of making a difference first hand.

5. Think out of the (gift) box: If you’re out of gift ideas, consider making donations to charity in honor of the people on your list. It’s a great way to express the holiday spirit and show you – and they – care for those less fortunate.

6. Check for security and privacy: You should always confirm that the charity you are accessing online uses appropriate security measures.

7. Hang onto your receipts: When you donate online get an emailed confirmation of your gift that meets IRS requirements, plus an account that keeps a record of your donations.

10 Tips on Giving Wisely

1. Budget for giving.
Plan your philanthropic activities right into your budget just as you would other financial obligations.

2. Be an informed giver.
Don't be afraid to ask questions when you're asked to give, including the specific name of the solicitor and his or her relationship to the organization, how much of your gift will be used for overhead, the specific project the money will go toward, and other important information. Give only when you feel comfortable that your dollars will be going to support an organization you know and believe in. Web sites such as www.NetworkforGood.org and www.JustGive.org provide information on more than 1 million charitable organizations from the GuideStar database, so you can make an informed decision on the organization you decide to help.

3. Keep the right records.
For gifts of less than $250, a canceled check or credit card statement is sufficient for IRS requirements. For larger gifts, you'll want to get a properly worded receipt from the charitable organization as a confirmation of your tax—deductible contribution.

4. Be aware of how much is really tax deductible.
If you receive a premium in exchange for your gift (such as a book or a dinner), the amount of your tax deduction is reduced by the fair market value of the premium. You can turn down the incentive item if you wish to claim a deduction for the full amount of your gift. Ask the receiving organization for more details.

5. Ask about matching gifts.
Many employers match gifts made by their employees or make grants to organizations recommended by employees. Be sure to ask your company how it can help your gift go even further.

6. Remember, your gift can be confidential.
If you prefer to have your gift remain confidential, you should let the organization know. You can expect the charitable organization to honor your request.

7. Consider alternative forms of giving.
Don't overlook the benefits to you and your cause received from bequests, charitable gift annuities, gifts in kind, endowments and many other creative forms of giving. Ask your tax advisor or attorney to help you make the best plan for you and your family.

8. Volunteer!
In addition to financial support, consider giving your time and skills. Not only will you help the organization, but you'll also make contacts, hone your skills, and learn more about the charitable cause to which you're committing your time and money.

9. Don't forget you have the right to say no.
Give generously when you can, but if you're unsure or feel uncomfortable—or if an organization simply falls outside your plan for giving—don't be afraid to say no. Or, ask for more information and take more time to think before making your decision.

10. Be a proactive giver!
You don't have to wait to be asked. Plan a giving strategy in advance. Contact the charitable organizations of your choice to discuss how your gifts can be most effectively used and help make a difference in your community.

Opportunity House is Today's Answer, Tomorrow's Hope.

Opportunity House is located in Reading, Pennsylvania and serves residents of Berks County. Our goal is to help families and adults become and remain independent members of our community.