Learn about the different ways in which you can donate to charities

Charities or non-profit organizations are organizations that have been established solely for the purpose of benefiting the society without any limiting conditions. These organizations help not only people from different walks of life and also animals who are in dire need of assistance and support. They can exist for different purposes such as educational advancement, economic upliftment, health, community development, and disaster relief, among others.

Non-profit organizations further mean that their existence is not for the financial benefit of its members. As the principal idea behind these establishments is the betterment of the society and its inhabitants, all funds obtained are thus used for their common cause.

Classification of different charities
Due to society’s manifold problems, it makes sense to reason that there are multiple types of charitable organizations to help with different issues. They are allocated into categories for better understanding and even within these, there are lots of sub-categories as some charities focus on niche goals.

Animal

Animal charities might all work for the good of these creatures but the kind of animals they look after differ, as well as their mode or morals of functioning. Animal charities are mainly distinguished into the following subcategories, which are as follows.

• Wildlife Conservation Organizations
• Hunting and Fishing Conservation Organizations
• Aquariums and Zoos
• Animal Rights Organizations, Services and Welfare

Environmental

These organizations mainly focus on bettering the environment and conserving it. They are primarily distinguished into two subcategories:

• Gardens, Parks and Nature Centers
• Environmental Conservation and Protection

Education

Charities that focus on education aim to provide basic education to individuals of all age groups and classes. While some work on providing financial aid, others may double up as a school and have classes throughout the year on various subjects. They can be classified into the following:

• Universities and Colleges
• Scholarship and Financial Aid
• Experimental Education and Reform
• Early Childhood Education
• Youth Education Programs
• Adult Education Programs

Health

As the category suggests, the organizations that fall under it focus on the physical and mental welfare of members of society from all walks of life. These can include treatments, experimental trials, health awareness programs and much more. They are further sorted into:

• Disease and Disorder Charities
• Medical Services and Treatments
• Medical Research Charities
• Patient and Family Support

Additionally, there are other important categories such as religious charities, research and public policy, international charities, human services, civil rights, community development and arts, and culture and humanities charities.

Now, since it is understood that charities are not profit-making, it is evident that they need patronage to continue functioning. While it is true that financial aid is always welcome, there are various other ways in which one can support their charity and its cause. These alternate methods are equally essential as the monetary help the organizations receive. Here are a few ways in which you can help, without writing a cheque.

• Donating Time

A lot of effort is put in by volunteers to make the charity a success. All these charitable organizations have various financial and social drives throughout the year and can do with helping out as a volunteer. Find a cause that you are passionate about and donate manpower to them. More power to you!

• Donating Skills

All organizations need the specific skillset of professionals from time-to-time. Charities are no different. As this can get quite expensive, you can help out with skills you may have acquired professionally or on your own. This can be designing the pamphlet for their next charity drive, cooking food for members, or helping them out with a legal issue.

• Donating Stuff

Numerable charities and non-profit organizations will gladly accept things like clothing, shoes, old electronics, or furniture in good condition. This is then given to the needy. Some charities might even gladly accept donations in the form of groceries and essentials.

• Raising Funds

Raising funds for charitable organizations does not necessarily have to mean you go to each and every person around you and ask them for donations. You can start by sharing their cause on social media and create awareness about it. Or you can try participating in walking drives or running marathons that support these causes.

• Donate Blood

There are a lot of blood banks and hospitals that can profit from your donation to them. Organizations like the Red Cross accept donations for free and the process is not very time consuming. Your simple donation could save multiple lives across the country.

• Ask for Gift Donations

Opt-out of receiving gifts and ask your loved ones to make donations to charities of your choice. Pledge to donate the funds for your birthday, anniversary, or holiday gifts to these establishments. You have to simply spread the word in this case and watch how many people go above and beyond what is required.

• Shop Right

Certain brands and corporates are donating a certain percentage of your expenditure towards charities they are affiliated to. The next time you step out to shop for anything, consider researching outlets that support charitable causes and head there for your shopping spree.

• Donate Tax Refunds

Tax refunds are like finding money stashed away in a pocket of an old shirt. You can donate this refund amount to a charity and feel good about yourself.

• Donate Rewards from Your Credit and Debit Cards

Credit card rewards are easily transferable to charities. In case your credit card vendor does not support that kind of transfer you can opt for a cashback reward and then think about donating those funds.

• Sign Up for Organ Donation

Signing up for organ donation is a noble act. You don’t have to make any donations except pledging to continue helping people even after you pass away. Register with an organ donation registry and pledge to gift your organs when you no longer need them.