3 minute read
CHARITABLE CAUSES, PROMOTION PARTNERSHIP
Six tips on how to make charitable giving a habit
By Sophie Ellingham, marketing co-ordinator at Investors in Community
“Try not to focus on how much you can or can’t give, just focus on giving … life is more enjoyable when you give back”.
Like many others, I spent years thinking that I couldn’t make an impact because I wasn’t able to donate hundreds of pounds each month but, in 2021, I decided to donate what I could each month.
After hosting two fundraisers on the Investors in Community (IIC) platform, and having both charities offer their thanks and gratitude for my small donation, I realised how big my little donation actually was.
Below are some tips to form a giving habit, but the best tip I can offer is to just give once and then see the impact you’ve created – after that, you won’t want to stop!
1. MAKE IT EASY
It’s important when trying to create a habit to make it easy. Using online giving platforms like IIC ensures that donating regularly is as hassle-free as possible. Look into donating with friends who remind you to keep up your new habit or set up automatic reminders on your phone on each payday so it’s the first thing you think about when you get your paycheque.
2. FIND WHAT YOU CARE ABOUT
Take a moment to write out a purpose statement and ask yourself what motivates you, as well as what you are interested in. If you love animals, perhaps a wildlife sanctuary is the charity for you. If you’re passionate
about helping kids stay active and have access to sports equipment, then look into your local community sports clubs and donate to them. Find what interests you and then start from there.
3. FOCUS ON THE REWARD
Habits are reinforced by rewards, and the good feeling of helping others is a huge reward. Make sure you can see the impact of your donation; you can do this by following your chosen charity on social media or getting in touch to discuss what each donation enables your chosen charity to achieve.
4. SMALL DONATIONS MAKE A DIFFERENCE
“Small actions x lots of people = big change”. Any donation is appreciated and, by donating whatever you can to your chosen charity, your small contribution is going to make a huge difference in the long term. It can make you feel connected to your community.
5. DONATE TIME, MONEY OR GIFTS
Giving back doesn’t always have to be donating money. At IIC, we facilitate the five forms of giving: funds, volunteering, skilled volunteering, pro bono and gifts. So, if you’d prefer to donate your time, or gift, to your chosen charity, it’s easy to get involved.
6. SET A REALISTIC BUDGET
Any donation is appreciated, no matter how small. If you’re worried about how you’re going to add giving to your routine, make the decision to donate £5 (or even less) each month. Soon it will become an exciting routine of picking a charity or cause you want to help and you’ll see the impact so often that each month you’ll find yourself wanting to donate more.
