Your 2020 Guide to Giving
The holiday season is upon us, and it's all about family, friends, gratitude, and giving. And maybe, after such a whirlwind year, you're even more passionate about those things than ever before. If that's the case, you're not alone. A May 2020 survey by global preventative mental wellness platform Modern Health found that amid the coronavirus pandemic, 75% of more than 700 respondents reported feeling more grateful for their health, relationships, and the life that they've built. More than half said they were inspired to give back, donate money, and volunteer help to those who need it, and 33% said they were giving more to charitable organizations than before the pandemic.
Americans are giving back in other ways too. A September report from Indiana University's Women's Philanthropy Institute found that 48.3% of 3,405 respondents engaged in charitable giving indirectly — for example, by making a point to order takeout from local restaurants and continuing to pay for services like haircuts and housekeeping, even while those services were on hold.
And all that giving back is good for us. Research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that for older Americans, participating in community service and social events was a strong predictor of life satisfaction. Another study in the journal Sociological Forum found that volunteering just one day a month may provide us with a greater sense of purpose and help us feel more connected to our communities.
Ahead, we've found the best resources that make giving back easier than ever this year. First, we encourage you to scroll our list of the best charities and nonprofits to give to in 2020. There, you'll find organizations that support all types of causes, from racial justice and civil rights to homelessness and mental health. We also encourage you to act, which is why we've compiled simple ways to show kindness, raise money, and volunteer (we've even included a list of ways you can serve your community without ever leaving your home).
Whatever you choose to do, we know it will fill your holiday season with that much more joy — and hopefully, create a positive ripple effect in ways you could never even begin to imagine.
The Best Charities to Give to Right Now
How Volunteering Can Improve Your Health and Happiness
Read More
The 35 Best Giving Quotes to Inspire Generosity
Unique Fundraising Ideas
Gifts That Give Back
101 Creative Community Service Ideas
Virtual Volunteer Opportunities
Where to Donate Clothes
Where to Donate Toys
Photography: Mike Garten / Prop Styling: Elisabeth Engelhart / Design: Betsy Farrell
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