It’s hard to believe that the end of the year is approaching so quickly. Wasn’t it just 2020, after all? Time flies faster than you think, which is why it’s important to think about your end-of-year giving plan now. 

Maybe you’ve been giving steadily to an organization of your choice throughout the year. Or,  maybe you wait until the month of December to make a big contribution to the organization(s) of your choice. Luckily, if you don’t have a plan, there’s still time! And it doesn’t have to involve giving thousands of dollars. Let’s dive into how you can help support organizations by building your year-end giving strategy. 

Find Organizations You Love to Support

Hopefully, you’ve spent the first part of the year forming relationships with causes you support and specific organizations you love. However, if you have not yet found that special cause or nonprofit, there’s still plenty of time! Pledge to figure out where you might want to give back as we close out the year. 

Once you’ve done some research and identified places where you would consider donating, reach out to talk with somebody who knows the organization. Ask if you can speak to a volunteer or a seasoned donor to get more insight into why they continue to give. This will help you decide if you’re making the right decision. 

Consider Volunteering 

While we often focus on “year-end” giving as a time to donate money, there are other ways for you to give back. Volunteering allows you to make a strong impact for an organization, and as year-end giving ramps up, organizations will absolutely be in need of all hands on deck to help with a variety of tasks. Contact one of your favorite organizations and see how you can lend a hand. 

As an added bonus, the fast approaching holiday season is all about being with the ones you love. Take this time to involve them in your giving efforts. Ask your friends or your family to volunteer with you so that you can, not only give back to a great cause, but also spend quality time with the ones you love. There’s no bonding quite like bonding over doing good together!

Donate Seasonal Items

As temps drop outside, there will be many seasonal opportunities to donate items. For example, many areas go through change in weather where hats, coats and gloves may be needed for those who can’t afford them. Take time now to go through your closet. Who said cleaning out your closet was only designated for the spring? Gather any unused winter clothing and donate to an organization nearby. Think of other seasonal items or volunteer opportunities that may be needed as we transition into fall and winter

How will you make a difference as we close out the year? Consider giving recurring donations, donating at the end of the year to a new organization or even volunteering your time to help an organization meet their goals. While it’s easy to get caught up in the holiday hustle and bustle, remember that you have the power to make a difference in peoples’ lives. Plus, there’s no greater feeling than that of giving back!