Some say the worsening economy is not quite a recession yet, others are convinced we’re already there. Whether we are or not, one thing is clear: with gas and food going up like they are, people have less to spend. Not only less discretionary income, but also less charitable giving monies to distribute.
Some charities are going to feel the pinch more than others. Especially because historically this time of year (from now until fall) is when people tend not to give. (Come the holidays, from Thanksgiving through New Year, people tend to be more generous.)
That’s why I say now is the perfect time to give. You can give again come the holidays if you want, but consider giving now. It’ll help even more.
Don’t think you can? Let’s revisit some previous articles (namely, “Five Non Cash Ways to Help Animal Shelters This Holiday Season” and “Ten Ways to Help Your Shelter”) for ideas on ways you can give (and give big) without spending much money.
Time
It’s one of the most valuable resources of all. In “Ten Ways to Help Your Shelter,” Aimee proposed some really novel ideas for ways you can donate your time. Ways that will have a big impact on your shelter. Such as:
• Handy with crafts? Make things to donate to the shelter that they can sell and keep the profits.
• Good with websites? Volunteer to update your shelter’s. Or create a blog giving the animals in the shelter a voice. Let each one tell the tale of how they ended up there and who their ideal person (or people) to go home with would be.
• Got a special skill or expertise in a certain area? Legal, PR, fundraising, accounting…any of these can benefit your shelter.
Search Your House
If you’ve been meaning to clear out the linen closet, now’s a great time. Give those old towels and sheets to your local shelter.
Newspapers are also always in top demand in shelters.
Got a Buck?
If you can spare just one dollar a month, consider giving it to the Animal Help’s Animal Shelter Campaign. Animal Help features a different shelter in dire need of financial support every month. Bonus: it’s tax deductible! (This month’s featured shelter is Critter Camp Exotic Pet Sanctuary.)
Adopt!
Okay, this one isn’t “free, cheap, or easy” by any stretch. Still, it’s the number one way to help out a shelter. Please, if you can commit to being a devoted and loving pet parent, do it. Trust me, it’s a decision you’ll never regret.
Related Articles
Six Creative Fundraising Ideas
79 Animal Rights, Welfare and Service Organizations Worthy of Your Donations