Tips for charitable giving in the summer months.

Each year, Americans give billions of dollars to charity, however, most of those donations occur during the colder, holiday months. You can help to make a difference to some causes during the warmer seasons when donations are low.

No matter how you decide to help, take the time to research your favorite cause and determine the best way to assist.

Here are a few tips to help you put your charitable giving to better use this summer.

Choose Carefully

Be sure your selected cause is a real charity and reflects your values or beliefs. Also, although charitable giving shouldn’t be about tax deductions if you want to itemize be sure your selected charity is qualified. You can look up your favorite charity online at IRS.GOV to see if your donation qualifies for a deduction.

Participate in Fundraisers

Attending fundraising concerts, poker runs and other events are a great way to help out your favorite cause.

Warm weather means more fundraising opportunities for charities of all kinds. Our area is full of great events such as Poker Runs, church fundraisers, and activities during local fairs and festivals. A great way to help your favorite charity is to participate in whatever event they may have going on in your area.

Volunteer

There isn’t a charity around that couldn’t use more help and I don’t know a charity that would turn down qualified volunteers. Get out and volunteer!

Donate Food

Food bank donations fall to an all-time low during the summer months, but the need for more food doesn’t. You can donate non-perishable goods to your local food pantry throughout the year.

Watch the TV version of this post from WDTN-TV2’s Living Dayton Program 6-14-2017

If you are looking for a charity with which to become involved, the website “Guidestar” has some tips on making an informed choice based on your values and goals. Click here: https://www.guidestar.org/Articles.aspx?path=/rxa/news/articles/2005/tips-for-choosing-a-charity-a-donors-10-step-guide-to-giving-wisely.aspx