How to Become a Philanthropist Even If You Don’t Have Millions of Dollars
Published January 30th, 2020
So you have the heart for helping others, and you badly want to donate to charity. The only problem is, you’re merely getting by yourself and probably only a couple of paychecks away from being homeless. Do you still have any chance of becoming a philanthropist?
Of course! Contrary to popular beliefs, philanthropy isn’t just about the money. You don’t have to be a Bill Gates or Warren Buffet to help the underprivileged. In charity, what matters most is the intent.
Here’s how to become a philanthropist even if you don’t have millions of dollars:
1. Share Your Expertise
Your skills and expertise are just as valuable as money when it comes to philanthropy. If you’re good at cooking, you can always help cook food in a soup kitchen. Or if you’re good at arts, you can put up an exhibit and donate all the proceeds to charity.
Take the example of a teacher in the Philippines who was awarded CNN’s Hero of the Year in 2009. He started a mobile school advocacy by refurbishing an old wooden cart. He filled it with books, notebooks, and other school supplies then took to the streets. He scoured slums, cemeteries, and even trash dumps to teach homeless children how to read and even basic math. He wasn’t a millionaire by any stretch, but he made use of his skills to make a difference in his community.
2. Volunteer Your Time
Another way of giving back to the community is by sharing your time through volunteerism. There are a lot of charitable institutions here and abroad that are always on the lookout for volunteers. It may not seem much to you, but your time and effort can help change lives.
3. Donate Your Old Belongings
Do you have clothes, shoes, or any belongings that you’re not using anymore? You can always give it to the less fortunate. Organizations like the Salvation Army, Goodwill, and The Red Cross accepts old clothing donations. You can also donate them to local homeless shelters or in soup kitchens. Homeless people need not just food but clothing and hygiene items too.
4. Give Away Reward Points
Charities can make use of reward points too. Whether it’s from a gas station, pizza place, supermarket, or airline, every point is useful. It can be used to provide food, clothing, or transportation to homeless people.
5. Do Random Acts of Kindness
Philanthropy doesn’t have to be elaborate. Even simple random acts of kindness can make a difference. Simple things like giving care packs to the homeless or offering a ride to the disabled can help brighten someone’s day.
6. Be a Blood/Organ Donor
Your blood or organ may give someone a second chance at life. So if an opportunity arises, do not hesitate to donate them. You may not be able to donate financially, but saving someone’s life is something that no amount of money can buy.
7. Organize a Humanitarian Effort
Organizing fundraising events and charity gatherings helps just as much as making cash donations. It not only helps raise funds for the needy but also increases awareness among people on the importance of charity.
8. Give Whatever You Can
When it comes to charity, any amount helps. No matter how small or insignificant it is. So don’t be afraid to donate any amount you can spare. A few dollars is still better than nothing. Remember, it’s the intent that counts, not the amount.
Donate To The Poor & Homeless Of South Florida
Our Father’s House Soup Kitchen has fed the poor and homeless in South Florida over 900,000 hot meals since 1993. Our tax deductible non profit organization also accepts and distributes donations such as clothing, toiletries, shoes, bicycles, and more. You can donate to help the poor and homeless through our website.
About The Author
Judy Ponio is a professional writer and devoted Christian. She has a passion for writing about topics related to morality and helping the poor and homeless. She is the lead author for the Our Father’s House Soup Kitchen blog.
Correct Digital, Inc is paid by private donors to provide website digital marketing services to this non-profit organization.
