Contrary to popular belief, the only way to give to charities is not through financial donations. Many people are able to find creative ways to help without going broke. There are actually many ways that you can help a cause that is close to your heart without having to pull pennies from your pocket.
Be a voice for a local charity. Speak out to the community. Raise awareness about the charity that you support. Knowledge is power. Research more about the charity that you care about and share your findings with the world. This will help the charity be more known and allow people to understand what it is they are trying to achieve.
Volunteer your time. Help at community centers or other places that are in need of an extra hand. A little physical work is often more valuable than anything monetary. Rather than just funding something, roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty. This is the best way to get involved.
Have fundraisers or yard sales. Many places will allow you to get products on consignment. This is especially common at local candle shops and places that make hand-made goods. Tack a few dollars on to the price that the item is being consigned to you. After you have paid off what you owe, donate whatever is considered profit to the charity in need.
Walk for your cause. Many charities have walk-a-thons. The theory is a simple one; all you have to do is get the people you know to pledge money for each lap or mile that you walk. Now put on your best track shoes, and walk your heart out. Not only are you making money for your cause but you are also getting exercise, to boot.
Donate things that you are not using or no longer need. Rather than letting stuff pile up in the corners and the closets, give it to those who can use it. Most charities will accept clothes, toys, and household items. Think about the less fortunate and put a smile on their faces by giving them the things they may not be able to otherwise afford.
Take up neighborhood collections. Ask your community to get involved. Compile a list of needed items and enlist the help of the people in your neighborhood to accumulate those items. Even aluminum cans can bring spare cash, and they take little time or effort to collect.
Write for your cause. Helium offers a feature where you can donate the earnings your articles make to local charities. Write an article that you feel will accumulate some extra cash and then donate it to the charity you feel is most deserving. Then, promote that article as much as you can so that others can read it and help to increase its earnings.
Get in touch with the charity of your choice and ask them what you can do to help. Chances are, there is a whole world of volunteering opportunity out there that you may not have ever known existed. A little help and effort can go a long way. Do what you can, when you can. Who could ask for anything more?