Getting started is always hard, especially when it involves doing good in the world. There are many questions that come to mind when it comes to establishing a new organization. Is it legitimate? Will I get along with the other volunteers, and how will the organization use my donations?
There are many ways to find a cause that you care about and an organization that you can support and that you don’t have to fear. Check out the below methods to find a good cause and get involved. There is a world of good deeds that are waiting to be done.
Do Research First
Charity Navigator can help you find a good cause by showing you how much money the organization uses for its stated purpose. Some charities only give around 70% of the donations they receive. After gathering a list of like-minded groups, get involved and find out what causes your team members care about.
Find Something Local
There’s a feeling of compassion fatigue that many people experience due to the endless causes that affect people’s lives. However, there are many ways that you can support a local organization that’s focused on addressing a specific issue. Besides donating money, your team can also help the organization by volunteering their time.
Find A Place Where There Is A Need
Most charitable organizations have multiple areas where they can allocate their donations. Sometimes, after natural disasters such as earthquakes in Nepal or Haiti, they receive more money than they need to address a specific cause. Unfortunately, these organizations are forced to spend money on that cause even though there is already enough money available. Instead of spending your donations on that cause, you can give to the general fund of the organization.
An organization may also need in-kind donations instead of cash. For instance, if you have a lot of unused items in your house, you can give them to the organization instead.