Helping someone in need is the gift that keeps on giving. The benefits of giving back to your community and local organizations are limitless. From social benefits, like forming personal and professional connections, to emotional benefits that leave us with a feel-good sense of accomplishment, helping others can mean much more and make a bigger difference than you may initially think.
Michigan State University Federal Credit has a storied history of giving back to the community through corporate philanthropy, financial education or employee volunteerism. In the past year, the more than 800 MSUFCU employees donated over 1,200 hours of volunteer time and over $185,000 to support community charitable organizations. Sarah Bohan, vice president of corporate relations at MSUFCU, shared some tips with on how families can make a difference in the community.
“Many nonprofits and charities are run on donations, so any size contribution can make a difference,” she said. “Your donation may also be tax-deductible, so keep track of donations throughout the year.”
Bohan suggested trying to donate to your community through the following activities:
- Donate money
- Make a change jar designated toward charitable causes, then make a family donation once or twice a year.
- Go out to dinner one less time per month, then donate the money saved.
- Donate items
- Have your family members go through their closets and toy chests once a year to clean out the things they no longer use/need, then arrange a family trip to your local donation center.
“Making a positive impact upon the lives of others doesn’t always need to involve money or things. It can also come about through donating your time to a particular cause or organization,” Bohan said. “Think about the things your family is passionate about and use that to find a charity to support by volunteering. This is also a good time for your children and family to see firsthand how their acts of kindness can have a positive impact upon others.”
- Where to volunteer
- Local animal shelter
- Food bank
- Community events