Be a part of the Community Impact
BY: RACHEL WUMKES
Giving Tuesday is here! Today is the perfect time to be a part of the impactful generosity that giving has on our local community.
Maya Angelou once said, “I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.”
What better reason is there than that? I mean, my soul could definitely use a bit of liberation these days. With the extra stress of the holidays, crazy schedules and deadlines and just the regular hustle and bustle of life, a little freedom for my soul sounds divine.
When we think of giving, our mind often gravitates straight toward money. But money is not the only thing we have to give. It is just as important to give your time or even your expertise on a topic.
Today is about celebrating all the acts of generosity we have to offer.
Love.
A smile to brighten someone’s day.
We all have something special to contribute.
For those who do decide to give the gift of a monetary donation today, please be careful. Unfortunately, in the world we live in today, scams are rampant this time of year. Thieves love to play on the generosity and big hearts of those who are easily fooled. Be sure you know the organization you are donating to, and that they are legit.
Be safe in the way you pay. Credit card or check is the safest option. If someone asks you to send cash, buy them gift cards, or send cryptocurrency, hold off until you can verify their intent. Do some research. Once you find your worthy cause, do a search of the organization name plus “compliant” or “rating” or “scam.”
Thankfully, we have a wide variety of organizations right here in North Iowa where you can donate to commemorate Giving Tuesday. Civic organizations, foundations, nonprofit organizations and a slew of churches or food banks. There are too many to list, really!
No matter what you choose to do today, be sure you share on social media using #GivingTuesday.
It’s not about bragging or highlighting your own awesomeness. Not today, anyway. Today, when others see your generosity, it is likely to inspire them to give as well. This creates a ripple good out into the community and creates a tidal wave across the North Iowa region.
Go forth, my friends! BE the good in Clear Lake today. SHOW someone how bright your inner light shines when you GIVE.
Maybe someday the giving mentality of the holidays and Giving Tuesday will become second nature to us. It’s hard to even imagine a world where we put others in front of ourselves, isn’t it?
We can all take the first step and start today!