Thanksgiving is fast approaching and it is a perfect time to appreciate all that we have. Important things like our health, family, friends, and the roof over our heads. Unfortunately a lot of people in our country are struggling to find the good in their lives. With the unemployment rate rising to 10.2% in October and the number of people unemployed rising to 15.7 million (the highest rate since 1983), many people are finding it hard to keep that roof over their heads.
Normally, the holiday is the season where people are most likely to give, but non-profit organizations are bracing for a decrease in the normal donations they would usually see during this time of year. The Chronicle of Philanthropy has reported that the top 400 charities in the US are expecting a 9% decrease in donations. Even though donations are decreasing, non-profits are seeing an increase in the number of people requesting aid.
So what is the solution? In a Southern Colorado, non-profits are joining forces to share each others information on who they are giving toys and food to, making sure that every child below poverty level will have a happy holiday. This is just one way we are seeing non-profits coming together to find unique solutions to the overwhelming demand for help.
Organizations like the Salvation Army, will be putting their volunteers out early in front of stores to help meet the increased need. “We're hoping at the very least to stay flat. But even if we stay flat, we're not going to be able to take care of the increasing needs," said Major Raphael Jackson, general secretary of the Massachusetts Division of the Salvation Army.
Here are some ideas for those of us who still have a roof over our head:
· Ask family and friends to donate to your favorite cause instead of exchanging gifts.
· Drop your spare change in the cup or bucket of the bell ringing volunteer.
· Volunteer your time at the local food pantry.
· Ask your child’s school who is in need in your community and grab a group of friends to each cook a dish for Thanksgiving for a family in need.
We can all do our part, even if it’s something small like donating loose change, to make a difference in someone’s life this holiday season. What a wonderful way to show our thanks this Thanksgiving!
Jenny Winchell is CEO and Co-Founder for JenSea Solutions, a strategic fundraising firm. She can be reached at Jenny@JenSeaSolutions.com and for more information visit www.JenSeaSolutions.com.
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