Each of us has the power to impact the world around us. Through our words and actions we can create change. When we are aware of this impact, we can use it, but often we forget how much influence we really have.
This is a time of year when charity is at its height (at least in terms of dollars and cents). If you are a registered "giver", if you're on the list of one or more chartities, you can expect many solicitations in the next few weeks...in fact, if you're on "the list", the solicitations might have already started rolling in.
With that in mind, there are two things I made sure to remind myself this morning:
First, in light of the current economic climate, be sure to give ANYWAY. If times feel tough, and you feel you need to give less than you might otherwise, then give less. Even if it's just a small fraction of what you might have given last year, five years ago, or what other people tell you is the "right amount". Just give.
Regardless of how you feel about the economy, the fear that we might otherwise allow to spread through our collective psyche can make any situation seem worse, and as a result, get worse. On the other hand, making a donation is said to make us happier, and support our belief that our basic survival needs are being met. So, give, in amounts small or large, and get an emotional boost.
The next thing I wanted to take note of this morning is a point that was made today by Seth Godin in his daily blog post. Use your power to influence what these charitible organizations are doing. Whehter it's in regard to the work they are doing in the field, or in their communications with you.
If you don't want to keep getting those costly direct mail pieces every quarter, don't just toss them in the garbage. Contact the organization, and let them know to stop sending them. You may choose to continue to give, or not, but at least the direct mail pieces will stop, perhaps allowing them to spend that extra dollar in the field?
If it's something deeper, let them know that too. Maybe you've decided to stop giving to a group becuase you feel they are being inefficient with funds, or maybe you feel they are no longer doing important work, and your funds are better given elsewhere, let them know that as well.
These groups need our feedback to continue to improve and get better.
A charitible organization is like a business in that respect. Donations, like sales, need to be earned. And, if you decide to "spend" your money elsewhere, let the group know why you're making a shift. that way, they'll at least have the opportunity to act on it if they choose to. In that case, you can consider the feedback your donation!
Happy Thanksgiving
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