While we all have great intentions to give back, sometimes life–or more importantly lack of extra money–gets in the way of donating to a good cause. Instead of thinking in terms of dollars and cents consider ways you can give back that won’t cost you a dime (and many very little of your spare time).
10 Ways to Give Back (without spending a dime)
1. Give Time
Most organizations need all the help they can get. Donating time is a great way to give back to a cause or non-profit. For instance, food banks often need people to sort donations and pack boxes or bags for recipients.
2. Give Gently Used Clothing, Furniture, and Housewares
We all know it’s a tax-deductible donation (check It’sDeductible for the value of your donations), but it’s also a great way to reduce the clutter in your home allowing you more space (and time) for other volunteer efforts.
3. Give your Expertise
Everyone has a talent they can share. Whether you’re an artist who paints murals, a web designer who can build a website for a non-profit, or something else your unique talents can help. Make a list of things you can offer including hobbies, talents, or your skill set for your job. You can then reach out to local organizations and see how your skills can help.
4. Give your TV time
The average American watches 3 hours of TV/screen time a day. Giving up even half that time will allow you some time to give back. Many non-profits offer ‘jobs’ you can do from home.
5. Give Phone Calls
Raising funds, or reaching out to members to share news and updates via phone calls is common practice for charitable organizations. Spending a few hours on the phone is a great way to give back especially if you’ve been blessed with the gift of gab.
6. Give as a Group
Looking for a team building exercise or an activity for a group? Consider giving back. Whether it’s a school group, co-workers, or a group of friends and family it can be a wonderful way to bond or get to know each other.
7. Give Vegetables
If you grow your own garden consider giving fresh veggies to your local food bank (always a desperate need). If you don’t have gardening space or know-how look for local community gardens or even consider starting one at your child’s school.
8. Give while Remodeling
Renovating or upgrading your home? Consider donating used but working appliances, moldings, doors, etc. to your local Habitat for Humanity ReStore. They sell the old pieces for a profit which helps them build more homes.
9. Give for Free
If you have a passion for couponing consider looking for freebie deals at your local stores. Spending a little time seeking them out will allow you to give in a big way to your local food banks and charities. If you receive freebies or ‘swag’ from your job you can also give these items to local charities.
10. Give with a Click or Purchase
Many companies are now offering ways to give back without having to spend. Whether it’s ‘liking’ them on Facebook, using their coupons for purchases you were already planning to make, or using a special link for your purchases you can give back by buying things you already planned to purchase.
While giving back may mean spending a little extra time or thought it is well worth the ‘expense.’ What are some ways you give back that don’t involve monetary donations?
For ideas on how to get kids to give back check out this post-5 Ways to Teach Kids to Give Back.
Kelly
My recent book, 100 Under $100: One Hundred Tools for Empowering Global WOmen, includes an action item for each tool - something readers can do. They are practical suggestions, not generally about buying but some of the tools are cool and available to American consumers on the Tom’s model - you buy one, they donate one. http://www.100under100.org - so many things you can do. Like creating your own bikathon! or donating your used bike, that’s a terrific thing to do.
Rob says
Give blood!