How to Wear Charitable Donations on Your Sleeve

Giving back to the community through charitable donations is something most people feel like they should do. In fact, research shows that approximately 70% of Americans donate to charity at least once every year. However, many people fail to make donations, simply because they lack the knowledge of what, where or how to give. The value of charitable donations to those receiving them is, really, invaluable. Simply not knowing the best charities to donate to shouldn’t deter people from making charitable donations.

People often overlook the easiest ways to donate. Giving money or making large contributions of goods, while admirable and appreciated, aren’t the only ways to make a difference in the lives of those who rely on donations. Countless charitable organizations are looking for donations of all kinds to help those in needs. Doing something as simple as cleaning out your closets could go a long way in providing help.

An estimated 12 to 13 million tons of clothing and textiles are thrown away in the U.S. every year. A significant portion of this could be recycled or clothing donations could be given to those in need. Specifically, studies show, that nearly 99% of clothing thrown out could have been reused or recycled. With the amount of organizations in search of charitable clothing donations, there is no excuse for such waste.

By taking clothes and other fabrics, such as bed linens or towels, intended to be thrown out and arranging for them to be donated, your used items can continue to be in service to those who feel the value of charitable donations the most. Many charity organizations provide convenient clothing drop off locations and donation pick up services. So, giving back can be as simple as putting unwanted clothes in a bag for someone to pick up.

The value of charitable donations can not easily be calculated or described. Certainly, there are the financial considerations. In 2012, donations to charitable organizations in the U.S. totaled $316.23 billion. Many donations to charity may be tax deductible. There are also environmental benefits to donating. For example, donating clothing and textiles instead of simply throwing them away, decreases landfill waste and pollution.

But, the most important factor to consider when it comes to assigning value to charitable donations, is the value donating gives to the people involved. Whether donations are going to specific groups, such as those helping disabled veterans, those that support children in need of clothing or charities that helping families in need, in general, all charitable donations have an impact on those receiving them. Without the support of the donations, recipients would go without basic necessities.

By donating, a person isn’t just getting rid of unwanted items. Charitable donations provide basic needs and new opportunities. The act of giving also provides the satisfaction of truly helping others and spreading goodwill.

Do your part today. Simply, throw those old jeans you no longer wear, or the shirts that no longer fit you and all those odds and ends you’ve been meaning to get rid of for ages in a bag. And make time to donate them.