Give from the heart: Year-end donations reflect values

As the year winds down and the holiday rush kicks into high gear, many start thinking about two things: making Christmas cookies or decorating the tree, and figuring out where end-of-year donations should go.

Most have stared at a stack of charity request letters or scrolled through a dozen “Donate Now” buttons and wondered how in the world to choose, and those people are in good company. This is the season of generosity, but it is also the season of overwhelm. People should never feel pressured to give, whether that is a monetary donation or a donation of time and labor. The holidays can be a busy and all-consuming time in their own right. But, for those with the time or funds to give, it can still be difficult to know where to put those things to make the best impact.

The good news? People do not need to overthink it. They can simply give where their heart leads them.

Start with personal values

We all have something that hits close to home: animals, education, food security, the arts, kids’ programs, conservation, veterans’ services, and the list goes on. Northern Wisconsin is full of nonprofits doing good work quietly, efficiently, and right in our backyard.

The best place to start is simple: ask yourself what matters most in your own life.

• Do you want to make sure no kid in the Northwoods goes hungry?

• Do you believe everyone deserves a warm bed when winter hits?

• Do you want to support mental health resources, cancer support groups, or local humane societies?

• Do you care about trails, lakes, wildlife, or protecting natural spaces?

Your values already know the answer. They just need you to trust them, and one person’s values may not be the same as another’s. Giving is a personal endeavor, and making those donations is a personal choice. Every donation is important, no matter the size, whether it is “only $5,” or “only 2 hours” spent helping others, it can mean a lot.

Look for matching priorities and values

Once an individual knows what they care about, they can start to look for groups doing that work in the Rhinelander area. Many local nonprofits run on shoestring budgets, small staff numbers and a whole lot of heart. A year-end donation can mean the world to a small, local organization. People can feel good giving to any organization, but to help a local nonprofit make a difference here in the community can mean even more.

Giving is not about overanalyzing, or scrutinizing a non-profit’s books like a board member. It may be a simple as the answer to just a few questions:

• Does the mission align with your values?

• Has the group been consistently active in the community?

• Are they transparent about how donations are used?

If the answers are yes, this may be the organization closest to your heart.

Think about impact a gift will have 

Once you choose an organization, think about the kind of impact you want to make. Some people want their donation to stay hyperlocal, helping families right here in the Northwoods. Others like funding long-term projects or contributing to programs that grow opportunities for kids, seniors, or vulnerable neighbors.

There is no wrong answer. This is your gift. Your legacy. 

What makes charitable giving special is that it turns something small into something big, bigger than just one person. Charitable giving can truly change lives, whether it is monetary or a donation of time. Giving does not need to be complicated. It does not need to be perfect. It just need to be sincere.

Even the smallest pebble dropped into the water sends ripples outward. The same can be said for charitable giving.

Stop back here in the Northwoods River News over the next few weeks to learn more about nonprofit organizations right here that could use the support of the giving community.

Beckie Gaskill may be reached via email at [email protected].