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The Future of Philanthropy

On September 10, 2020

To say that COVID-19 has had an affect on everyone would be an understatement. There isn’t a single industry that hasn’t been impacted by the virus. While there has been a significant rise in philanthropy over the past several decades the pandemic has created a major need for more giving.

As the nation experienced major shutdowns millions of American people were left out of work and without pay. Although so many were left struggling there was an immense number of those willing to offer a helping hand. People donated what they could to food banks and handed out meals, masks, and hand sanitizers. Furthermore, corporations stepped up and gave large amounts of money to foundations and nonprofits.

Thus, COVID relief donations had reached $7.8 billion dollars by the middle of April. 60% of those donated dollars were reported to be from corporations, businesses, and religious organizations in the United States. Now, well into October the unemployment rate is continuing to jump, however, thankfully, so has the number of people who are donating their time and money to help others.

It is clear that the pandemic has caused a shift in philanthropy. Many of the country’s wealthiest people have altered their priorities and found ways to give back in the present, instead of donating money towards things that may not come to fruition for years to come.

There is a link to global health and economic prosperity which has only been highlighted during the global pandemic. Many leaders in philanthropy have moved to more transparent positions, inspiring others to do the same. Philanthropists such as MacKenzie Scott and Jack Dorsey made major contributions and commitments, publicly, setting a new standard among their wealthy peers.

Even Forbes has changed and redefined the way that it measures philanthropy. Whereas the amount of money a foundation had used to be used to measure the organization’s charitable acts, now Forbes is focused on judging the actual amount of giving that takes place. Other companies will surely follow suit, helping to make philanthropic acts happen faster and have a further impact.

People around the world have realized that everyone can make a difference and come to fully understand the importance of giving. There are a plethora of ways to contribute to one’s community and even people who are struggling themselves have stepped up to participate in philanthropy. Although the pandemic is still creating new challenges every day, it has altered the future of philanthropy in beautiful and important ways.

The Best Foods You Can Donate to a Food Bank

By Jerry Swon

On February 6, 2020

In Blog, Community, Volunteer

Throughout the United States, one in seven people struggle with not getting enough food. Many people rely on food banks to get the food they need to feed their families. Anyone can donate to a local food bank, but what donations help the most? Below you will find the best foods to donate to food banks.

Protein Sources That Are Shelf-Table

Protein is an important part of anyone’s diet. Protein helps build and repair tissue, as well as become an important building block for bones, muscles, and skin. Try finding canned protein items like fish or chicken. You will also want to donate vegetarian protein sources such as beans and peanut butter. For someone who can’t eat meat, these substitutions can create a filling meal.

Food Bank Donation Suggestions:

Canned fish like tuna or salmon
Canned chicken
Canned beans
Canned soups
Nuts
Trail Mix

Pantry Staples

Look for shelf-stable foods that can be flavored a variety if ways and incorporated into multiple recipes. For example, canned cream of chicken soup can be used in all sorts of recipes like casseroles, chicken pot pie, chili, etc.

Food Bank Donation Suggestions:

Rice
Pasta
Tomato sauce
Canned vegetables
Cooking oils
Flour

What You Should Avoid Donating

While any donations are helpful, there are a few things that you will want to avoid donating. Probably the most obvious thing you should avoid donating is perishable food. The majority of your food should have a longer shelf life, and not go bad after only a few days. Besides nonperishable foods, you should also avoid donating junk food and any canned food that is damaged, unlabeled, or home made.

Junk Food and Soda

Food that is both shelf-stable and nutritious, is something that people struggle with getting the most. You might think your donation of treats, candy, or chips is adding some variety to the food bank, but in reality, food banks receive a lot more junk food than what they actually need. While everyone likes junk food and snacks, this kind of food is difficult to cook healthy and filling meals with.

Canned Food That is Damaged, Unlabeled, or Homemade

Canned food that is dented or has a rusty can, can be dangerous to consume. Dented cans can cause leaks which will compromise canned food which in turn can cause food poisoning. You will also want to leave any unlabeled or homemade items at home.

If you have any questions of what you can’t donate, feel free to call your local food bank.

How You Can Help the Homeless in the Winter

By Jerry Swon

On January 10, 2020

In Community, Volunteer

One of the hardest seasons of the year for the homeless community is winter. When the temperature starts to drop below the freezing point, people facing the elements are at risk for hypothermia which means they are also at risk for fatal consequences. This winter, try doing you part and help the homeless in one of the five ways.

Know the Signs of Hypothermia

It’s important to know what the warning signs of hypothermia is. If you are aware of the signs, it will be able to identify those who need help right away. If you notice any of the following symptoms, reach out to the affected person and get help as soon as possible:

Shivering
A weak pulse
Slurred speech
Slow and shallow breathing
Low energy
Memory loss or confusion

Hand Out Warm Clothes

You will find that in many thrift stores, churches, and even grocery stores there are barrel in which you can donate your old coats. Instead of hoarding your unused and old coats in your closets, give it to someone who needs it most.

Life can be really hard for those who live on the streets. Those who live and sleep outside often get their items stolen and don’t have the opportunity to wash their clothing very frequently. Donating hats, gloves, coats, all help to ensure that the homeless community will stay a little warmer.

Donate

During the winter months, shelters and homeless centers are at their busiest. That being said, many of the resources are strained. Hundreds of people will walk through a shelter a day looking for meals, referral services, clothing, and of course shelter. During the winter months consider helping out those on the front line. Your donation will go to a worthy cause and help buy very important products.

Step up and Volunteer

As mentioned earlier, with an increase of people in need there is a strain of resources— which includes staff. Volunteering even one shift a month at a shelter or soup kitchen can be a huge help. Make the effort and call a few of your local shelters and ask how you can volunteer your time.

Advocate for the Cause

You would be surprised to find out how many people in your own community that don’t realize just how many homeless people are in your area. It’s up to you to spread the word.

Charities That Help Children at Christmas

By Jerry Swon

On December 10, 2019

In Community, Volunteer

For Christmas this year, start a tradition with your family and give back to children who are in need. Below you will find four charities the help children during the holidays.

One of the most recognizable charities on this list is Toys for Tots. Between October and December you can purchase anew toy and drop it off at a U.S. Marines’ Toys for Tots location. One of the members of the U.S. Marine Corps will then collect the toys and give them out to children in the community. When donatating a toy make sure that it is unwrapped!

Operation Christmas Child

Leading up to the holidays, don’t throw out your shoeboxes! Operation Christmas Child is a charity that collects shoeboxes that are filled with all sorts of little gifts from toys to school supplies to candy to hygiene products. As a volunteer of this project, you can select a specific age group and fill a shoebox with items of that age group.

On top of the little gifts you pick out, there is a small donation required to cover any shipping costs. If you decide to donate online, you will be able to track your shoebox until it reaches its new home.

Make-A-Wish Foundation

Make-A-Wish Foundation is a charity that is pretty active year-round, but during the holiday season they are busier than ever. The foundation works to making the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions come true. During the holidays many companies will partner up with Make-A-Wish to make the most impact as possible.

To help out Make-A-Wish this season, consider dropping off a letter to Santa at any Macy’s location. Every letter you drop off Macy’s will donate a dollar to Make-A-Wish.

Another way to help is buy gifts through the Make-a-Wish store. You have to get your Christmas shopping done anyway, you might as well give back while you are doing it. Not only will your friends and family receive a wonderful gift, but every item you buy, a portion of the proceeds will go back Make-A-Wish Foundation.

During the holiday season, My Two Front Teeth and the Family Giving Tree, join together to help children. To help a child start by visiting either of the charities’ websites. Each website have a list of children’s names, their ages, as well as what they would like for Christmas. From there you can pick which child you would like to support.

Top Charities Family & Kids Love Giving to at the Holidays

By Jerry Swon

On November 8, 2019

In Blog, Community, Volunteer

There is no better time than during the holidays to give back as a family. Whether you already give back throughout the year or wish to start a holiday-giving tradition in your family, giving back is a wonderful way to teach your children about the value of kindness. Expressing kindness through giving to those in need will lay the groundwork for your children to become more kind and generous adults, which we all know the world needs more of.

Here’s a list of top charities family and kids love giving towards during the holiday season:

Toys for Tots

Toys for Tots provides the opportunity for your family to shop for children who are less fortunate. You can purchase a new, unwrapped toy and take it to a Toys for Tots drop-off location near you. The toys will then be distributed to children in your very own community.

World Wildlife Fund

The World Wildlife Fund was established to protect wild animals and their habitats on a global scale. Your family can choose an animal adoption kit of your choice or shop the website with a portion of the proceeds going directly towards the WWF’s global conservation efforts.

Better World Books

Does your family love to read? This wonderful program allows your children to set aside their gently used books and donating them. The books will then be redistributed to children around the world. You can go to their website to find a donation box in your area or mail your books to their headquarters. This is a charity that’s great for any time of the year.

Operation Christmas Child

Operation Christmas Child takes a collection of shoeboxes filled with school supplies, toys, hygiene items, apparel, candy and more to children in need. If you donate online, you will receive a special label so that you can track your box’s journey to its final destination.

Make-a-Wish Foundation

The Make-a-Wish Foundation helps make the wishes of children with life-threatening medical needs come true. There are numerous ways to give back to this charity. You can shop at specific stores where a portion of the proceeds will go towards the Make-a-Wish Foundation. You can also raise funds by purchasing gifts through the charity’s online store.

Angel Tree

Angel Tree helps children who have a parent in prison. Statistics show that one in three prisoners is a parent with 75% of female prisoners being mothers. Through this charity, your family will pick a child to sponsor in your city or you can make a monetary donation online.

5 Companies That Give Back in Big Ways

By Jerry Swon

On October 15, 2019

In Blog, Volunteer

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is becoming an important concern across all industries because it impacts a company’s bottom line and the community. The growing importance of CSR reports is now a factor for investment decisions among those who value sustainability. The following are 5 companies that place a major emphasis on CSR and giving back to society.

1. The Coca-Cola Company

The soft drink maker has donated over $800 million through the Coca-Cola Foundation since 1984 in its quest toward sustainability. Each year the company allocates one percent of the prior year’s operating income to the foundation and other causes. Some of the recipients receiving the largest donations have included American National Red Cross ($1.2 million) and the National Recreation and Park Association ($1 million).

2. The Walt Disney Company

The media company donated over $333 million to nonprofit organizations in 2015. Another way the giant has given back to the community is through its Disney VoluntEARS program, which promotes employee volunteer activity. This service has led to millions of hours of volunteer help. As an example of using its brand for fundraising, the Stars Wars: Force for Change initiation took in over $4.2 million for UNICEF Innovation Labs.

3. Amway

The company’s slogan is “Helping People Live Better Lives.” A primary focus is helping children in need, as the company has raised $225 million from donations since 2003. Through its partnership with the U.S. Dream Academy, Amway helps improve lives of young people by building skills and character. Another one of the company’s contributions to social responsibility is developing a health packet called Nutrilite Little Bits.

4. Starbucks

The Starbucks Foundation gives millions of dollars to nonprofit organizations. Starbucks also invests millions of dollars in its Opportunity for Youth program. The company supports sustainable ideals through its supply chain. Some of the sustainable activities Starbucks supports include biodiversity conservation, water sanitation and agricultural training.

5. Whole Foods Market

This grocery store chain focuses on healthier choices than what is found in conventional supermarkets. The company works with several foundations, such as the Whole Planet Foundation, which aims to reduce poverty in 69 countries involved with company products. The company works with programs that raise awareness for kids and teachers about nutrition.

More and more often you will find that the list of companies who give back is growing. The companies listed above are only a few, that give back to the community. Are there any other companies you believe should be added to this list?

Tips for Volunteering in a Soup Kitchen

By Jerry Swon

On August 26, 2019

In Blog, Volunteer

Volunteering your time is one of the most selfless things you can do, especially when it involves feeding those who are less fortunate. People may have a slew of reasons as to why they want to volunteer, but one thing is for certain; they want to help others. Volunteering at soup kitchen is an easy way to start your volunteer journey but, before you jump right in, here are a few tips you might want to take into consideration.

Tip #1: Be Okay With Taking Directions

When someone signs up to volunteer, they need to be okay with not being the boss. Volunteers are there to help others, not be the star of the show. If they’re not good at taking orders from others, it’s probably better to find another form of volunteering.

When volunteering to work in a soup kitchen, volunteers need to be open to doing whatever needs to be done. From cooking and serving to cleaning up afterward, having an open mind is a must. Since volunteers wear multiple hats, they also have to be flexible.

Tip #2: Proceed with Caution

When someone feels volunteering at a soup kitchen is right for them, they still need to proceed with caution. Whenever you decide to volunteer, you must make sure that you are in optimal health. Being around food when you are sick is a health risk for others.

In addition to not being ill, your attire should also be a consideration. Play it safe and wear sneakers as opposed to open-toed shoes. Also, it’s better to wear clothes that won’t be ruined by stains. Volunteers with long hair need to tie it back and wear a hairnet. Finally, if someone is allergic to latex, they also should bring their own gloves.

Tip #3: Think About The Many Ways Help

Even if the soup kitchen already has met its quota of volunteers, there are other ways to help out. People wanting to feed the needy can rally for local businesses and even their neighbors to donate any extra food they have. It’s nothing short of shocking how much food grocery stores and restaurants throw out every day.

Tip #4: Things to Consider

Helping others who are down on their luck is a noble cause. But even people with the biggest hearts might not understand the process of volunteering in a soup kitchen. Before offering to help do, ask questions and make sure it’s the right fit.

Top Countries To Volunteer in That Need Your Help

By Jerry Swon

On August 1, 2019

In Blog, Volunteer

Want to make a difference, but not sure where to start? Volunteering abroad can be a life-changing experience and make a positive impact on the world. You don’t have to confine yourself to United States boarders. There are many countries all over the world who need a lending hand from others. The following are the top countries that need the most support from committed volunteers.

Morocco
Morocco needs volunteers in healthcare and education. A high percentage of the country’s rural population still lives in poverty, despite a massive year-on-year commitment the government made in 2005. Volunteers seeking to make a difference in public health and women’s rights will also find ample opportunities here. Morocco follows strict Islamic customs, so volunteers should keep that in mind in their dress and behavior.

Mexico
Many immigrants come through Mexico seeking a better life in the United States. Mexico needs volunteers in healthcare and community development. People interested in biology may also be interested in joining a marine conservation project. Mexico has a sharp divide between what tourists see and experience and the daily life of its people. Pay attention to the latest warnings from the United States State Department to know which places to avoid.

Fiji
Fiji has over 300 islands. There are plenty of opportunities to volunteer in ecotourism or marine conservation. Would-be teachers might look for a chance to teach English or coach local sports. English is spoken fairly widely here, so communication isn’t difficult. However, Fiji is fairly remote and expensive to get to when compared with other volunteering opportunities abroad.

Peru
Peru’s economic inequalities lead volunteers from all over to this beautiful, mountainous country. Volunteers can contribute in community development, construction, and teaching English. Be aware of the lack of modern hygiene, but don’t let that be a barrier to making a difference.

Haiti
Haiti has been pummeled by political strife and natural disasters for years. The country is still rebuilding from an earthquake in 2010. Hurricane Matthew in 2016 has set redevelopment back even further. There are plenty of ways to volunteer in disaster relief and reconstruction. Volunteers should take the time to fully educate themselves about the requirements of their chosen program before embarking on a volunteer trip to Haiti.

Thailand
Thailand is a popular destination for backpackers, foodies, and adventurers. It’s also a great place to volunteer. One of the biggest ways to give back is in elephant protection. However, volunteers should seriously educate themselves about Thailand’s complicated sociopolitical situation before hopping on a plane.

How You Can Bring Change to Your Community

By Jerry Swon

On June 5, 2019

In Blog, Community

There is nothing as good as living in a place and bringing about some form of positive change. Creating an impact within your community can help to improve the lives of the locals while also creating a name for yourself. The opportunities are limitless as far as the options you have to bring some change in your community.

Donating for charity

Every community should have an opportunity for residents to contribute to charity. Even if no charity organization exists in your area, you may opt to rally the locals towards donating and raising money for other charitable causes. You may also champion the idea of establishing regular visits to nearby children homes as a way of upholding philanthropy.

Be a responsible resident

Another way you can help bring about change within your area is if you get yourself actively involved in local politics and issues of social, economic, and political concern. Active involvement in such issues helps ensure that the local government is brought to task and supervised accordingly to ensure responsible leadership. Such a contribution helps alleviate some of the most common leadership challenges that poorly governed communities face.

Being a recycling ambassador

One of the greatest challenges we have in our time is the need to live environmentally-responsible lives. Being cautious of how resourcefully to use the environment by recycling and practicing proper disposal of waste can help bring an impact. As we all know, trash has a very negative impact on our environment. Recycling helps us conserve energy and keep our environment looking healthy and clean. Recycling waste yourself can also impact other people who may have you as a role model as far as maintaining the integrity of the environment is concerned.

Buying local

Buying local has a ton of great benefits! It reduces environmental impact, keeps the community unique, and creates more local ownership and jobs. It is always said that buying locally produced items helps build the local economy. You should, therefore, target frequenting the local stores and grocery outlets for your common shopping needs. Besides, buying locally produced items gives you access to fresh produce directly from the farm. Buying locally also help sustain the locals’ businesses, thereby creating economic sustainability.

Become socially conscious

Social consciousness in a community is crucial in helping maintain peace and stability within the area. Social responsibility can be practiced by endeavoring to check on the welfare of your neighbors and empathetically solving common social problems.

The Ideal Method to Finding A Volunteer Niche

By Jerry Swon

On April 1, 2019

In Blog, Volunteer

Looking for volunteer opportunities is one of the easiest searches one can do, generally. Local communities will never be at a loss for needing help, and the resources available to find that work are readily accessible.

Different sources one may use to search for these opportunities include local community centers, local community colleges, bulletin boards, and probably more commonly, the internet!

If one chooses to go to internet route, there is a particular source that provides some good insight on the topic, called Idealistcareers.org. An article recommended for reading can be found by going to the website here.

The first thing to focus on before beginning this search is to decide which field of work would be most desired to volunteer in. What area of interest sparks passion? Perhaps it is an area of interest that allows for many open opportunities. When a person can feel that he/she is making a difference in what he/she does, all parties benefit from that, and it keeps him/her wanting to go back for more. With that in mind, a person can start to look at other factors that play a part in finding the right opportunity.

Other factors to consider in this search include preference on a timeframe, local versus remote locations, and how much time is wanted to be spent volunteering. For timeframe, a person could look for weekday work or weekend work. Some volunteer opportunities are more available during the weekend because more people will generally be available during those times. That’s not to say that during the week there are fewer opportunities.

That brings up another factor – local versus remote locations. If someone is a hands-on type of person that prefers working locally and with other people, examples to consider for local opportunities may be at a pet shelter, a soup kitchen, a children’s daycare, or feeding the homeless. If a person would prefer to be on the computer, on their phone, or volunteering through media, some remote opportunities may consist of assisting Red Cross with online message boards, editing or writing to help support an environmental cause, or acting as an advocate for a mental health company.

All of the above can act as an aid for how to find volunteer opportunities. A future volunteer should decide what field to help with, figure out how much time is to be spent doing it and then put it into action.