Donating to Giving Center and other charities you care about not only benefits the charities themselves, but it can also be deeply rewarding for you too. Millions of individuals give to charity on a regular basis to support causes they believe in, as well as for the positive effect it has on their own lives.
Are you wondering why giving to charity so gratifying?
IT MAKES YOU FEEL GOOD
Donating to charity can be a major mood-booster. Knowing you are helping others is empowering and can make you feel both happier and more fulfilled. Recent research has identified a correlation between making charitable donations and an increase of activity in the area of the brain that registers pleasure — meaning it really is far better to give than to receive.
In a study done by professors at the University of Missouri — Columbia and the University of California — Riverside, individuals who regularly gave to others tend to report a much higher feeling of joy and contentment than individuals who did not give to others.
STRENGTHENING PERSONAL VALUES
Feelings of social conscience were the most widely-given reasons as to why individuals give to charity. No matter what type of charity work they supported, most people said that they felt they had a moral duty to use what they had to help others, an idea rooted in their personal values and principles.
Having the ability to improve the lives of others is a privilege and one that often comes with its own sense of obligation. Acting on this powerful sense of responsibility is an amazing way to reinforce our own personal values and feel like we are living in a way that is true to our own beliefs.
GIVING TO CHARITY INTRODUCES YOUR CHILDREN TO THE IMPORTANCE OF GENEROSITY
Experiencing and encouraging donating to charity with your children will show them they have the ability to make positive changes in the world. Children naturally love to help those in need, nurturing their innate generosity will likely mean that they grow up with a great appreciation of what they have, and will carry on supporting charity.
Protect Your Local Community
National safety net programs, like Food Stamps and disability benefits, can be great for Americans who are in need, but donating to charity can create critically important local safety nets that guarantee assistance during crises and emergencies. Charities like Giving Center are able to respond faster and more appropriately to the needs of local communities than larger organizations. Local giving, therefore, provides important support for the programs that enhance your community's well-being.
REDUCE YOUR TAX BURDEN
Finally, charitable contributions can give you a tax deduction at the end of the year. If you itemize your tax return, you can report the dollar value of your donations to charity for a deduction in your taxable income. Even if you are short on cash, you are able to donate unwanted items to charity (such as cars, boats, and computers)and claim the value of these goods as a deduction.
If this has inspired you to make a generous donation to charity, please visit Giving Center online. Giving Center makes it easy to give back to the community and works for charitable missions that are important to you.
