Charities accept donations of time, money and goods.
Charitable organizations exist to deal with a spectrum of social ills around the world. Charities serve the needs of many diverse communities, combating poverty, hunger, inequality and the fallout of war and natural disasters. Most of them depend on donations from their supporters. Regardless of your area of interest, you should be able to make a meaningful contribution to a worthy cause without hassle.
Instructions
1. Find a local or international charity, or nonprofit organization which is doing the work that you believe in most. If you are specifically interested in combating homelessness in your city, locate area shelters and soup kitchens with the most need. Online databases and local church and community bulletins should give you a feel for which charities could use your donation.
2. Decide on the nature of your donation. You may choose to donate a predetermined sum of money, or you may elect to volunteer your time instead. In the case of Salvation Army, Goodwill or a neighborhood thrift store, they may appreciate your clothes and household items as much as a cash donation. The type, and amount, of your financial or service donation will depend on the charity you have selected.
3. Call the headquarters or local office of your chosen charity, to verify the best method for submitting your monetary donation, or to set up a volunteer date and time. For large, multinational charities, there's usually a sophisticated website through which you may submit electronic payments using a credit or debit card. Local organizations may require an in-person visit or a check in the mail. Calling ahead will ensure that your donation is received and acknowledged.
4. Ask about tax deductions for your financial or property donations. Many organizations operate with a 501(c)(3) status from the Internal Revenue Service and are therefore qualified to provide you with deductions on your taxes for the amount they receive in donations. Collect receipts from those charities to which you give.
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