How to become more charitable in the recessing economy without hurting your wallet

Valerie Ettenhofer
Staff Writer

When one brings up the idea of giving money to charity, they’re met with a multitude of excuses from the public. “I can barely support myself, so how could I give to someone else?” is the most popular lamentation, followed closely by “Most charities take the majority of your money for themselves” and “You never know if your money’s helping, anyway.” Luckily, these are mostly misconceptions, as there has actually never been a more convenient time to give.

First of all, a student can keep their budget in check and still make the effort to bring humanitarian aid to the world.

The internet has revolutionized the format of charities, letting you help others by helping yourselves with websites like thecharitysearch.org, an alternative to Google that donates one cent to a different charity for each term you search. By the time finals roll around, a student could have given a few dollars simply by researching for class.

Another education-based way to give back is by studying at freerice.com, a trivia website that donates ten grains of rice to a starving country for every correct answer you give to a multiple choice question. With subjects that include Spanish vocabulary and chemistry symbols, Pierce students could donate entire meals while preparing for their upcoming tests.

A third way to support philanthropic endeavors without emptying your wallet is by being attentive to online contests. Many organizations, including YouTube’s Project for Awesome, will reward money to the charity of one’s choosing through video or photo contests. If you aren’t creative, you can still view the contestants and vote for a winner.

There are also scholarship rewards available for setting up donation events for specific charities. Simply coordinating action and spreading community awareness paves the way for others to give, even if you cannot.

If you do plan to open your wallet, choose carefully. Some charities spend a hefty percentage of money given on marketing, and there are even for-profit charities that spend huge amounts of their intake on various and less-than-transparent expenses.

Several watchdog report websites have been created purely for the purpose of reviewing the validity of charity mission statements. The best way to avoid paying for something (or someone) you don’t approve of is to ask for the fine print whenever possible.

Don’t be afraid to question the company behind the extra dollar tacked on at the grocery store, or the man outside Wal-Mart with the clipboard, asking you to donate.

Finally, remember not to let your wariness become cynicism. Companies like Stand Up To Cancer sends 100% of public funds on research grants for a cure or refined treatment. Private institutions like Seattle Children’s Hospital rely heavily on donation, and have no minimum limit to giving. Local churches often find effective and reliable organizations to work with in the community. Products like Tom’s Shoes match your purchase by providing a pair for someone in a less fortunate country.

There is always an easy way to make a positive impact in another life. Every penny counts.