As we ring in the new year, many people make resolutions. Are you tired of resolutions about dieting, exercise or organizing? Make a resolution in 2025 that you won’t regret: Give Back.
Here are some practical steps to take for your giving to positively impact your
community and bring personal fulfillment.
- Identify what matters to you:
Choose causes or organizations that align with your values and interests. It’s easier to stick with your giving resolutions if you pick charities that you care about deeply. Don’t feel bad if you don’t have one cause or passion; use this as an opportunity to learn about issues and take an honest inventory of what matters most to you. If you need help exploring local, regional or national organizations
that match your interests, we can help you! - Set-aside time:
Volunteering your time and skills is a great way to learn more about specific causes or organizations.
Nonprofit organizations often depend on volunteers to carry out their mission. You may have skills or talents that fill a valuable role and help an organization make a bigger difference. Volunteering can take every format – from a regular schedule, to as needed. Find the right fit for you. Nonprofits in our region identified declining volunteers as one of their biggest challenges. - Give:
Financially support those organizations or causes you identified or where you volunteer. As you become comfortable with their work, consider a recurring gift or learn about specific areas that need financial support. Ask staff how your financial gift could best help the organization. - Celebrate your impact:
Keep track of your journey. As you make decisions about where you direct your time and dollars, you can see the impact you make. Celebrate these personal milestones and use them to keep your focus and motivation. Share your experience with friends and family (and us!) to encourage others. - Plan for the future:
Estate planning is a great New Year’s resolution to take stress off your family. Planned giving is being intentional about what you want to do with your estate. It’s the process of sitting down, making decisions about the best way to structure a gift that will support both your family, as well as the community. Contact an estate planning attorney or CKCF to get started.Don’t know where to begin? We can help you fulfill your philanthropic needs. Give us a call today 270-737-8393 or email us at info@ckcf4people.org.