The International Day of Charity is celebrated every year on September 5. It honors the anniversary of Mother Teresa’s passing. She dedicated her life to helping the poor and destitute. The United Nations established this day in 2012 to raise awareness and mobilize people, non-governmental organizations and stakeholders worldwide to engage in charitable activities. Charity plays a crucial role in helping people in need, supplementing public services and promoting the rights of marginalized and underprivileged groups.
Why charitable giving is important
Charitable giving is a powerful act that can transform lives and uplift communities. It addresses basic needs such as food, shelter, education and healthcare, ensuring that everyone has a chance to live a dignified life. Giving is also important for your wellbeing; it can boost your mood and positively impact your health and wellbeing. By contributing to charitable causes, individuals can foster a sense of community, empathy and social responsibility. Charitable giving also helps medical research, the environment and cultural preservation, making a positive impact on society as a whole.
Tips for charitable giving
As we prepare for the International Day of Charity, here are some practical tips to help you engage in charitable activities that are meaningful to you and the causes that are important to you.
01
Reflect on the issues that resonate with you, whether it’s education, healthcare, environmental conservation, animal rights or social justice. Choosing causes that align with your values will make your charitable efforts more fulfilling.
02
Look for reputable organizations that are transparent about their operations and impact. Websites like GlobalGiving Atlas, GiveWell, Effective Altruism Funds, and Candid can help you find well-run nonprofits that can maximize the effectiveness of your donations for a variety of important social causes.
03
Decide how much you want to donate and consider making a multiyear commitment to a charity you like. This helps organizations plan better and ensures your contributions have a sustained impact.
04
Charitable donations can provide tax benefits, reducing your taxable income. Talk to a tax advisor to learn how you can optimize your donations for tax purposes. Remember to ask for a receipt following your contribution if you wish to benefit from any tax benefits.
05
If financial donations aren't possible, consider volunteering your time and skills. Many organizations rely on volunteers to carry out their missions, and your involvement can make a significant difference.
06
Engage your family, friends, or colleagues in charitable activities. Participating in a giving circle or organizing a fundraising event can amplify your impact and foster a sense of community.
07
Many employers offer workplace giving programs that match employee donations or provide opportunities to volunteer during work hours. Take advantage of these programs to increase your charitable contributions and involve your colleagues.
08
Stay informed about global issues and the impact of charitable work. Share information with your network to raise awareness and inspire others to get involved. Knowledge is a powerful tool in driving collective action.
09
Establish personal goals for your charitable activities, such as a target donation amount or a certain number of volunteer hours. Setting goals can help you stay motivated and track your progress.
The International Day of Charity is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of giving and to prepare for meaningful charitable activities. By identifying and contributing toward causes you care about and the organizations that support them, whether through charitable donations, volunteering, or simply educating yourself and others, you can make a positive impact on society. Let’s prepare for September 5 and contribute to a better world.
