Today is Giving Tuesday, a day for not-for-profit organizations to focus their fundraising campaigns. If you’re like me, you get a barrage of requests. All have great needs as they share their accompanying strategic stories for how they’re making a difference.
How do you decide where to invest your charitable contribution?
Give on-purpose. Let’s say you have $1,000 to donate. Try using the portfolio approach below. Suit yourself by adjusting the percentages for the 4 categories of giving.
- Primary: Pick 1 to 2 charities where you are deeply involved and give at least 50%.
- Secondary: Pick 1 to 3 charities where you have a meaningful connection and give 25%.
- Support: Pick 2 to 4 charities in support of friends’ or family members’ interests and give 15%.
- Angel: Pick 1 to 3 charities and give 10% where the spirits leads you.
The portfolio approach focuses your giving, addresses a variety of needs, and remains true to what needs truly matter to you.
In 1990, when I was writing The On-Purpose Person, I “finished” the manuscript and put it away for two weeks to clear my head of it. In reading the story I was struck that it was unfinished. A few days later it struck me that a chapter on giving was missing. Chapter 17 was added and I knew the work was done.
Giving is a natural outward expression of your purpose. All the work you’ve done on the inside of your life to find and clarify your purpose, order your world, and taste peace is void without sharing. A simple plan will more likely provide you a joyful stewardship and contribution to those in need.
Happy Giving Day!
Kevin
