Feeling Good about Philanthropy

It seems that there are as many different causes that need to be fought for in the world as there are individuals; so no matter what your interests, there is a myriad of ways you can do your part. Need a little nudge to get yourself started? Before you find an organization and figure out how you can help, check out divine.ca’s top five reasons to give back to your community, both local and global.

1. To make a difference
This may seem like an obvious one, but the main reason to volunteer either your time or your money is definitely to help others and make the world a better place. You’ll attain great satisfaction from knowing you helped, no matter which way you chose to do it, and how little or big your contribution.

2. To give yourself a challenge
Of course, it’s easier to be lazy and stay home—but actually getting yourself out there, donating your time, skill, or money will give you a challenge to take on. Whether for you the challenge is as small as having to wake up early on the week-end or bigger, like taking the initiative to travel somewhere help is needed, you’ll feel rewarded once you’ve overcome it.

3. To use / sharpen your skills
No matter what your career, chances are you have developed skills specific to your job. Why not put these to good use by offering them to an organization that needs them? Whether it’s photography, marketing or sales skills, or simply that you have knack for cooking or gardening, there are so many ways you can help!

4. To meet people
When volunteering your time or skills, you are bound to meet people with common interests. This can be great for making new friends, or can even be seen as a networking opportunity in general. Single? At least you know that cutie delivering meals to the elderly with you has a good heart—what more could you ask for?

5. To have fun!
There are so many ways you can give back to your community, whether it’s by becoming a big sister, helping design a non-profit organization’s website, or volunteering a few hours a week at a home for the elderly. The important thing is to choose something you’ll enjoy doing, and to have fun—which is what will ultimately keep you doing more and more good actions!

For information on worthy Canadian charities and organizations, make sure to check out our Karma Corner. Or what about getting your workplace involved in your efforts? We’ve got a list of the steps you need to take to make it happen. Click here!