Despite our best intentions, plenty of Americans don’t have the time or the energy (or unfortunately the desire) to turn out in person to volunteer for good causes. Even if a few bucks is all you’re able to spare this holiday season, make sure to give where it counts. Here’s how.
You know those people who really have their stuff together? The ones who make to-do lists and actually check everything off on the same day, who exercise regularly and somehow also have the energy to organize a 5k, volunteer at voter registration drives, and co-chair a PTA committee? Not all of us are cut from this go-getting cloth; heck, most people are just trying to make rent every month and make sure our kids aren’t biting anyone.
That doesn’t mean we don’t care deeply about our communities and want to make the world a better place. For everybody out there who feels like you’re not doing enough to give back, listen up: it’s okay if all you can contribute right now is a little bit of money. But please, make sure to give consistently and intentionally. Let’s unpack what that means, starting first by acknowledging that talking about “giving back” requires us to peel back several layers of privilege—we don’t live in a vacuum where everyone has the same access to financial resources, social networks, mobility, you name it .
But sustainable giving isn’t only relevant to the most privileged among us—after all, it’s communities with the least wealth who are actually the MOST generous with the money they do have. Small, recurring donations are actually one of the most powerful ways that people can make a collective impact on issues they care about. It’s this kind of grassroots fundraising that many small nonprofits, mutual aid groups, and political advocacy campaigns rely on to keep their work going and growing.
Giving Season is almost upon us. In a few short weeks, you’re most likely going to get a wave of year-end fundraising pleas from every single organization whose email list you’ve found your way onto. Starting on Giving Tuesday and peaking just before the ball drops us into the new year, do-gooders and organizers are counting on lots of donations to fund their mission for the coming months. For anyone with a modicum of disposable income, a one-off donation might make you feel good this holiday season. But if you really want to make a difference, pick an organization (or two!) and set up a monthly recurring donation. Whether it’s $5 or $500, you’re making a lasting impact.
And do your research: groups that rely on grassroots support, that aren’t as likely to see those big philanthropic gifts from foundations, and those led by marginalized people could use your support the most. And for what it’s worth, it’s also these organizations that are working to change the systems that even require the need for charitable giving in the first place 
)So whether you’re kinda busy giving every waking hour to your job(s) and family responsibilities, or you’re just not a people person, you can feel good about giving back with your dollars—if you take a moment to do it right.
At Givebutter, giving back is kind of our thing. In fact, Givebutter is donating $50K to verified nonprofits this Giving Tuesday, so if you’re looking for the right cause for your cash, or if you know an awesome group that needs a giving boost, join our community of changemakers and help us #spreadthebutter during the holiday season and beyond.
