As you look at your finances, you may find you need to make additional charitable donations for tax purposes. There are so many charities we all know and love and it is honestly easier to write one big check and get it over with. But, have you considered giving to your local charities? There are many local groups where your hard earned money will go into making a huge difference in the lives of others right there in your own community.
Here are some local (Metro Raleigh area) and National places to consider.
Food Banks
There is always a need for food at the food banks. There is usually a shortage around the holidays. You can usually donate money or food. Some make it so easy. You can even order online and have food shipped to them.
Some of my favorite ones to donate to locally are:
Dorcus is one of my favorite places. They accept donations of clothing and other items. They're set up with a storefront so people can come in and shop. They're in a shopping center with Habitat for Humanity. You will also see the Read & Feed busses there.
Shelter
The Homebuilders association and our local Keller Williams offices have partner with Operation Coming Home to build homes for veterans. This is such a wonderful program.
Christmas/Winter Related
Elderly/Disabled Neighbors
Pets
Ministry related
Your own church is a great start. Find out where your church or place of worship is in regards to their their annual budget. Many places of worship find themselves in a deficit at the end of the year and count of end-of-year donations to help them balance the books. Some will take stocks, cryptocurrencies, etc. so be sure to ask.
This is a great organization that helps people across the world. It is part of the Franklin Graham ministry based out of North Carolina. They feed, clothe and give medical help to people all over regardless of their faith affiliation.
This ministry is well known for the work they do with students on college campuses across the country and beyond. They actually do a lot more than that.
An outreach for addiction recovery and beyond.
Other Great Organizations in Need
Read & Feed helps underprivileged kids learn to read and brings them a nutritious lunch.
The Green chair project helps those facing homelessness, crisis or disaster. You can donate goods or money.
Ronald McDonald House of Wake & Durham
This is a great organization that collects gently new or used closed and purchases items needed to help clothe school kids with dignity. They put a note in the pocket for the kids.
As for volunteering in person, this is a great thing to start in January. I see and hear people wanting to have that experience with their family during the holidays. The end of the year is a difficult time for organizations to train new people. They often respectfully ask you to check back after the first of the year and make it a regular thing.
All the best as you end 2021 and kick off 2022! Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
Comments(13)