November is all about gratitude. With both Thanksgiving and GivingTuesday on the horizon, the time is right to reflect on what we’re thankful for and explore ways to give back. Find inspiration for your next gesture of generosity in these five ideas.
Donate Used Goods
Declutter your apartment while making a difference! Many nonprofits rely on public donations to help families in need. Gather gently used items like clothing, shoes, coats and household items that others might find useful. Winter is coming, so don’t forget to look through your cold-weather gear. The city of Milwaukee provides a list of organizations that accept donated goods from clothing and books to vehicles.
Volunteer Your Time
Time is a valuable gift. Whether cleaning up a community space, serving meals at a shelter or putting a skill or hobby to good use, volunteering even just an hour can make an impact and boost your own spirits. Need a starting point? Explore a list of Milwaukee volunteer opportunities compiled by Volunteer Wisconsin.
Participate in GivingTuesday
GivingTuesday is a global generosity movement that encourages people and organizations to transform their communities and the world. It’s the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving and this year falls on Dec. 2. Charities large and small run fundraising campaigns tied to the event. If you want to get in on the action, visit GivingTuesday to find organizations across the globe aligned with the movement—including here in Wisconsin.
Make a Monetary Donation
With the holidays ahead, November is a great time to donate to a cause that matters to you. Make a one-time donation or set up a recurring gift. Look for organizations running holiday campaigns or consider charities that don’t get as much attention this time of year. Need ideas? NGO Base has a list of more than 1,600 organizations in Wisconsin.
Spread Kindness
A small gesture can make a big impact. If you don’t have the time or resources to offer, spreading kindness is a great way to make a difference in someone’s day. Write a thank-you note, surprise a friend with coffee or a treat, or go out of your way to help someone at work. Remember: Kindness can be contagious!
For the Greater Good
Whether you provide money, time, items from your apartment or simply a smile, there truly are countless ways to give back. Find what’s right for you this season and, if even in a small way, it can help make the world a better place.
