I love fundraising, and giving to good causes (as my posts might make clear). Although I might not be able to give a lot, as I still live with my parents and rely on their support quite heavily, I do try to do my bit!
Although I planned to discuss charity engagement in this post, I have decided to show how giving to charity doesn't just benefit the cause, but the people who benefit too. I have got some of my information from the following sources:
http://www.wisebread.com/5-ways-giving-to-charity-is-good-for-you
http://www.wisebread.com/why-generosity-is-key-to-everything-including-your-career
It has been pointed out that giving can be great for your health. With a study from Carnegie Mellon University stating: "people who were socially connected (i.e. volunteering or giving to charity) reported catching fewer colds." However giving can help much more than colds, according to author of Why Good Things Happen to Good People, Stephen Post reported that, "giving to others has been shown to increase health benefits in people with chronic illnesses, including HIV and multiple sclerosis." This seems a bit far-fetched to me, but I can believe research that found the link between giving and reduction of stress hormones. Psychology expert, Dr Tony Grant said, "Knowing we’ve done something to improve the life of others not only boosts our self-esteem and gives us a sense of purpose, it also shifts our attention away from our own stresses and worries."
Not only does it help your health, but it can help with your happiness. There is no denying this, as call it selfish or personal satisfaction, but to be honest, it feels good to give something whether it is providing a one-off monetary donation; giving food to the homeless; helping out at an animal shelter, or donating clothes to your chosen charity. A study of 46 people has shown that "participants who were directed to spend a small amount of money on others (either $5 or $20) reported greater feelings of happiness than those who were directed to spend the same amounts on themselves."
Happiness can result in better employees, who work harder and tend to be be more productive. Why? I am unsure, but clear examples are companies like Zappos and Google, who have been shown to have an innovative corporate culture based on fulfilled staff.
Staff who are generous are able to build more supportive networks. Maybe this is because they are seen as more likeable, or because they appear happier, and therefore people are more willing to be in their presence. Either way, generosity can help exude confidence and be a real sign of good team players, who wish to help others in their industry too. If you help others, more people are willing to give assistance to you when needed. This is evidenced by Eleanor C. Whitney, writer of the book, Grow: "When you are generous you don't just give of yourself, but acknowledge the contributions and needs of others. The result is a network of people who are also willing to help you."
Often neglected is the importance of generosity amongst management and those higher up in an industry. It might be one of lesser known qualities for a good leader, but it plays a big role in encouraging staff. Jodi Glickman, communications expert has explained that managers who are generous are not just well-liked: "Generous bosses get 10x the productivity from their employees; generous employees' stars rise in tandem with their bosses'."
Although not all contributions are tax-deductible and the rules for making such charitable donations can be complex, you can easily speak to someone more knowledgeable. Nobody is a fan of the tax-man (except maybe the tax-man's family), so anywhere you can regain tax is a huge plus.
Money isn't the only way to give to charity. Some may donate hard-earned cash from fundraising, savings or monthly earnings, but others may wish to donate personal belongings or even volunteer. Many charities are happy to have volunteers, who can provide their time and skills. This looks good on a CV, but can also be fun as you can fundraise, help out a local charity shop or even provide administrative support, drive, feed the homeless, but this all depends on the services a charity provides.
It is also a great way to give an issue that affected you or someone close to you. For example, if you had dealt with a natural disaster and lost your home, family members and anything you held dear, you might be inclined to give to a charity that helps natural disasters such as the red cross.
Giving can be positive whether it is to charity, helping an elderly person cross the road or to a work kitty for a well-loved staff member leaving, getting married or leaving to have a baby. It gives you: that warm fussy feeling, is a way to support something you feel passionate about, is beneficial to your career and health, there are ways of giving that can be tax deductible and potentially cost you nothing. I believe in karma, as this post can demonstrate. I believe that anything good done by a person only means that something great will happen to them that is unexpected. Your kindness can result in gaining that job you have been hoping of getting, or result in you relieve some stress.
I will discuss charity engagement soon, but I never do run to my own plans, and either find something more fascinating to talk about or do. I hope you have enjoyed this post all the same, your support is very much appreciated and hope you find time to leave feedback.
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