There are many valid reasons for charitable giving. It is important to support missions near and dear to our goals or values. When we donate to a worthy cause, we help promote goodwill in the world while also creating a spiritual impact for ourselves and others. From finding the most worthy organization to offering assistance, the world needs more people willing to donate their gifts and talents to advance impactful charities.

This article will dive into the various reasons for giving as well as advice on locating the best foundation to support. We will also learn the biblical basis for charitable giving. The path to supporting great charitable organizations starts here.

Impact By Aid

We can impact organizations in our communities in numerous ways; giving money, helping with a service project, or donating items. Service organizations and nonprofits rely on people willing to support them in order to ensure their work is ongoing and impactful. Not only that, donating time and resources reflects our love for others as Christ loved us (John 13:34). Displaying Christ-centered love and kindness impacts our neighbors and communities.

Here are a few more reasons why we should aid faith-based charities:

Touch People’s Lives

Giving to an organization is another way of helping those around us, just like we would stand by a friend in their time of need. Whether we know the people we’re helping or not, we can positively touch lives when working with great causes. Our actions will continuously make a difference.

Be Mindful of What We’ve Been Given

Share the resources and the blessings that have been provided as the Lord has given us a Biblical imperative. In Matthew 10:8 we are told that “Freely you have received; freely give.” In Luke 12:48 we learn that “from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.” By giving to others, we are following the Lord’s commandments and improving the world around us.

Charities Need Us

Another valid reason to support philanthropic efforts is that they need us. Every nonprofit organization relies on its donors and supporters to do its work. Without donations or volunteers, many wouldn’t be able to positively act in the community. Here are just a few reasons why faith-based and other charitable organizations rely on us:

• Fund programs and projects that help the community
• Pay staff salaries and property fees
• Purchase new supplies and materials
• Pay for events and marketing

Kindness Is Contagious

There have been many studies that have proven kindness makes us both happier and healthier. When we support a good cause, there’s no doubt that others will be inspired by our Christian love. Showing graciousness in this way is excellent for strengthening our faith and that of those impacted by our giving.

Influence Others

Sharing our experiences and spreading the word about faith-based donations with others encourages them to share their own gifts and talents and creates awareness about worthwhile movements. Our friends and family may be inspired by our giving, leading them to donate money or time.

Show Empathy

Anytime we donate to a worthy mission, we are showing empathy or the ability to understand and feel what another person is experiencing. We imagine walking in their shoes and seeing the world through their eyes. When we decide to support a charitable program, we recognize someone else’s needs.

Discovering the Movement

Now that we’ve decided to support a great cause, the next step is to find the right purpose. There are a wide variety of faith-based community organizations and charitable nonprofits operating across the United States. Discovering the institutions that align with our goals and personal values is crucial.

Here are a few tips that will aid in finding the best mission to support:

Personal Connection

An intimate connection with a cause breeds inspiration and compassion. Think about what’s important, including challenges faced or issues that are top of mind. For example, if a family struggled to put food on the table in the past, they may feel passionate about giving to a food shelf that supports families in similar situations.

Do Research

Once we have identified a foundation that connects with our goals or values, we can do some research to learn about the organization and its work. By looking into partnering nonprofits or political organization affiliations, we can ensure that our beliefs are fully aligned with their mission and the work they hope to complete.

Look Locally

Though many organizations are working internationally, it’s best to start by helping in our community. Look for local organizations currently doing work in the neighborhood. See how it’s possible to help them, whether with time, money, or supplies.

Ask Friends and Family

Often our friends and family already give to causes they are passionate about; we just haven’t heard of them yet. If we’re ready to begin, asking the people in our lives for suggestions is an excellent place to start.

Where to Start

Once we’ve narrowed down the list of efforts we are interested in supporting, the next step is determining the best ways to contribute. Contact the organization directly and ask what their primary needs are. This will ensure that we can provide the most significant impact right from the start. Giving can provide many growth opportunities including meeting new people, developing valuable skills, and learning more about our local communities.

We can even enlist in training to grow spiritually and strengthen connections with deeper meaning. Here are a few more ideas:

• Shop to support a cause
• Donate great gear or gently used items to organizations in need
• Volunteer time
• Spread the word to family and friends
• Give money monthly or annually

Deciding to Give

Choosing to make a difference is just the beginning. Once a person has found an organization that aligns with their values and beliefs, the next step is to identify the best way support can be provided. Whether offering time, donating items for those in need, or sending extra funds, the aid will be appreciated as each helps strengthen social, financial, and spiritual aspects in the world around us.