A Time for Giving: 10 Inspiring Ways to Make a Difference this Thanksgiving

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our blessings and share our good fortune with those in need. Remember, it’s not the size of the donation that matters most; it’s the spirit of giving and the positive impact it has on others’ lives. Even performing random acts of kindness can have a large impact.

Here are ten ideas for charitable giving during this season of gratitude:

1. Gift Your Time and Talent: Sometimes, the most precious gift you can give is your time and expertise. Become a volunteer for local charities, schools, or nonprofit organizations. Use your skills to teach, mentor, or provide professional services for free. It’s giving back with a personal touch.
2. Unlock the Power of Employer Matching: Many employers offer an extraordinary benefit – they match charitable contributions made by their employees. It’s like a generous double-up for your donation, and it’s as easy as pumpkin pie.
3. Donor-Advised Funds – Your Giving Compass: Donor-advised funds provide a versatile tool in the world of charitable giving. You can make a lump-sum donation of appreciated securities, enjoy an immediate tax deduction, and take your time to decide which causes to support.
4. In-Kind Donations – Sharing in Kindness: Consider gifting appreciated stocks and other securities to organizations. Clear out the clutter in your home to find physical items that others would enjoy but cannot afford, like furniture, books and toys. Connect with organizations that provide convenient curb-side pick-up services from your home. How easy is that! From stocks to clothing, your donations can bring warmth and joy.
5. Think Outside the Donation Box: This Thanksgiving, get creative with your giving. Symbolically adopt an animal at a wildlife sanctuary or empower a family by giving them a flock of chickens through organizations like Heifer International. This is the type of giving my dad does, and it is fun for my family to guess which animal it will be that year. These unique gifts offer not only a gesture of care but also long-lasting support.
6. Fundraise with Heart: Host your charity event or campaign to support a cause you’re passionate about. Whether it’s a charity run, a bake sale, or an online fundraiser, invite friends and family to join in and make a collective impact.
7. Sponsor a Child’s Future: This Thanksgiving, change a child’s life by sponsoring their education, healthcare, or well-being. It’s a personal and direct way to make a significant difference in a young person’s life.
8. Get Your Kids Involved: Build a legacy of giving by finding charities that allow your kids to volunteer alongside you or have them decide which charity brings them joy through contributions that are meaningful to them. Another idea, inspired by my mom, is to send a booklet of items needed by a charity. Choose items from these catalogs with your children and grandchildren for a truly enriching experience.
9. Tax-Efficient Giving with QCDs: Once you reach the age of 70½, explore the tax-efficient world of Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCD). Your donation from your IRA can be excluded from taxable income, offering significant tax benefits. When you reach the age when distributions are required, you can use this strategy to fulfill your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) for the year.
10. Estate Planning for a Legacy of Giving: Include charities in your estate planning to ensure your values live on. By making a charity a beneficiary of your pre-tax accounts or other accounts, you can leave a lasting impact. Depending on your goals and financial situation, Charitable Trusts can be a powerful tool for achieving your philanthropic dreams.

For more ideas, here is an ebook by my friend, Vanessa Lowry, called 30 Days of Gratitude. Click on this link for a free download https://daysofgratitude.com/. It includes 30 gratitude exercises that are easy to accomplish.

As Thanksgiving draws near, let’s reflect on the spirit of gratitude and giving. Our hope is that this has provided you with some food for thought on ways to give that resonate with you. If you have any questions about the options mentioned above, please reach out to your Bluerock team. Your choice, no matter the size, can brighten lives and spread positivity. This holiday season, let’s embrace the true essence of Thanksgiving by sharing our blessings and kindness with those in need. Wishing you a joyful season of giving!

Rachael Neil, Partner