The cats and I are thankful for so many things. We have nutritious food and clean water. We have a roof over our heads and plenty of land around that we can look up and see the stars and the moon. (Little ambient light around.) (We like it that way.) We have enough money to do some fun things, like buy toys and collect boxes.
Life is good.
We know we’re lucky, but sometimes we have to remind ourselves that others are not. Not so much.
Researching Charities
Before giving, investigate your charity. Find out how much of the funds donated actually go to the cause. Is the charity transparent? Does the charity do what it says it does?
Bookmark these sites for future reference. They cost nothing and keep their databases up-to-date.
Even though the above sites are great, sometimes you need to start with searches that are more specific. While I show you other sites, I still recommend that you take the charities that interest you and check them out in at least one of the above search engines.
Hunger
When we were little (by we, I mean “we” of my age group), our parents used to remind us to clean our plates, because children were starving in China.
Well, children are starving all over the world, including here in the United States. Including here, in our own communities.
This website gives information about charities that specifically fight hunger. It includes such well-respected agencies as Feeding America (formerly Second Harvest), Bread For The World Institute, The Hunger Project, Heifer International, UNHCR – from the UN Refugee Agency – and Save The Children. 25 charities are highlighted.
Veterans
My generation was raised by men and women from the WWII and Korean War eras. My generation went to Viet Nam. My generation raised children who have served in continued wars in far places. No matter our political leanings, supporting our veterans is always an important and satisfying endeavor.
This site, from 2014, lists charities that support veterans, like the USO, Puppies Behind Bars, and Disabled American Veterans. Not listed in that site, but a great one to check out, is the Gary Sinise Foundation.
Disaster Relief
When disaster strikes, so do bogus disaster relief schemes. From this website comes not only this quotation, but very good information about giving with care and intention.
“In times of crisis, many individuals find themselves wondering how they can help those affected. Depending on the nature of the disaster (man-made or natural), there are often a variety of organizations committed to helping those affected. Before you give to an organization responding, make sure you’re following these tips to ensure that your donation will go to the cause itself and help those affected.”
Clean Water
Many countries have ongoing or situational water crises. This website provides a list of charities working to meet that need, including Pure Water For The World, Water For Good, and Hope Of Life International. Another organization that works to provide clean water is Rotary International.
Healthcare
Healthcare, medical insurance, surges in diseases. These are hot topics. This website provides a list of organizations who give for life, including AmeriCares, UNICEF, Feed The Children, and Doctors Without Borders.
This Charity Navigator page allows you to search for opportunities to donate to specific disease, disorder and discipline; patient and family support; treatment and prevention services; and medical research.
In Closing
If you are thankful, be truly thankful, and help others to join you.