NON-PROFITS n
Giving that Speaks to your Heart
by Laura Dorsey , Master StoryTeller
iving is not just about making a donation ; it is about making a difference . This past year has been like no other : a global pandemic , an economic recession , racial divide , and social unrest . Sometimes it was enough , as Marvin Gaye once sang , to Make You Wanna Holler . And yet , despite it all , our local nonprofits stood strong while meeting the needs of our community . Taking nothing away from the government or private sector , which addressed some of the needs , more often , it was the local nonprofits that put their vision into action , caring for those less fortunate . Non-profits were a bridge to the economic gap of 2020 , and we owe them more than a debt of gratitude .
IBA Success is dedicated to educating and empowering our readers . This article will provide a little research , a bit of due diligence , and help with soul searching to ensure that we are making a difference when we pay back that debt of gratitude . First , let ’ s talk about philanthropy and the more profound impact of giving . A search of the definition tells us that philanthropy combines two words : philos ( loving ) and anthropos ( human being ). Philanthropy is the love of humanity . It involves the giver identifying and exercising his or her values . When this type of giving is enacted , the gift lasts . At IBA Success , we want you to be educated givers , so here are a few tips for choosing the recipient of your charitable donations .
WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE IN ? – Giving is not a business transaction ; it is a human connection . You do not have to give to everyone who asks , so ask yourself some questions . Are you interested in people , animals , or the environment ? Many people prefer to support charities working in their communities , where they can see the benefit directly from their work . Does the charity inspire you ? Research the same way that you would test drive a car . Can you make them a charitable partner for life ? You want to give not only because the organization addresses a cause but also that it tugs at your heartstrings .
SIZE – Is the size and name recognition important to you ? Practically everyone knows some charities , and others are unknown to most people . If you support a smaller , less-known charity , your gift may constitute a larger part of their budget . It also may be easier to get involved in other ways , such as volunteering . Sometimes the best way to determine an organization ’ s effectiveness is to get involved by volunteering , working on a committee , raising money , or whatever you can do- and it all can be done virtually respecting social distancing .
MISSION STATEMENT – All nonprofits should have their mission statement on their website . Find one whose mission answers the questions that you just asked yourself . By supporting an organization with a mission that matches your heart , you will know with some degree of confidence that your donation will be out to good use .
FOLLOW THE MONEY – You work hard for your money , and you want to support an organization that respects that sentiment . Your nonprofit of choice should work effectively to spend their donations . Their programs , grants , and donations should be clearly defined on their website . The nonprofit should have a positive rating on a site such as GuideStar ( https :// trust . guidestar . org /). The website should also provide a listing of its board directors , donor privacy policy , measurable goals , documented successes .
THE COMPANY THEY KEEP – You want to check out what partners or sponsors are supporting the nonprofit . Do you wish to donate your money to an organization that does not have any other partners ? Most nonprofits will list sponsors on their websites . Are they companies that you have heard of ?
If you can help , with time or talent , the need is never more significant than it is right now . Giving is a personal act . Servant leaders are more than givers ; they are givers with a purpose . It is a known fact that people act from the heart , not the head . You want to choose a nonprofit that is a good steward of your donation since it is hopeful that your relationship will be long-term . At the end of the day , whatever your reason : you want to leave a legacy , you are fortunate and want to give back , or you want to be seen as a role model – pick an organization and do your part by supporting their work in our community . Booker T Washington said , “ Those who are happiest are those who have the most for others .” n
IBA Success Magazine n VOL 7 , Issue 1 26