(InvestigateTV) — Giving USA reported that $557.16 billion was donated to charity in the U.S. in 2023, much of which was donated during the winter holidays.
Bank of America National Private Philanthropy Executive Erin Hogan said if you’re looking to make a difference and have an impact, it’s never too late to start and it doesn’t always have to be giving money.
“Certainly, giving financial contributions is an important part of it, but also donating your time and talents through volunteer efforts is equally important,” Hogan noted. “Certainly, the need is as great as it’s ever been.”
Hogan said there are close to two million nonprofits in this country alone, so options to contribute are abundant. She advises people to think about having a budget and a plan for how much and where to give.
“Starting with thinking about the things that are most important to you in terms of the issues,” she suggested. “So, perhaps maybe you have been impacted personally by a scholarship or by an illness or a disease. Really thinking about those issues you’d like to have an impact in.”
Hogan said to also think about geography. Some want to make sure their money goes to charities in their community. These benefactors can easily research the charities they are considering just by spending some time online.
Sites like charitynavigator.org list organizations and rate charities on how well they serve their mission and the stewardship of their resources.
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