Charity And Mental Wellness: Lessons From National Philanthropy Day
Giving to others can feel good, improve lives, and contribute to strong social bonds. National Philanthropy Day—observed each November 15th—is an opportunity to celebrate these positive impacts of volunteerism and charity. By finding ways to give back to your community this November, you can experience connection and fulfillment while helping others. Whether you volunteer, donate, or participate in an event, there are many ways to celebrate and acknowledge the importance of philanthropic endeavors. Below, learn more about National Philanthropy Day and find out how you can observe.
What is National Philanthropy Day?
National Philanthropy Day (NPD) was created to foster generosity in the United States and celebrate ideals like fundraising, philanthropy, and charity. Those who observe are encouraged to get out in their communities and find ways to make a difference. Founded in the 1980s, National Philanthropy Day occurs every year on the 15th of November. Since President Reagan declared it a national event in 1986, people across the country have used this day to celebrate the joy of giving and recognize those who have donated their time, money, and other resources to help others.
National Philanthropy Day involves hundreds of events and activities, mainly in North America. It is organized by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) in San Diego, which has over 200 chapters worldwide. Those who want to participate in events can learn more on the NPD page of the AFP website.
The mental health benefits of giving
One of the reasons National Philanthropy Day is important is it raises awareness of the positive effects of giving—of time, money, etc.—on mental health. The American Psychological Association (APA) reports that such actions can activate regions of the brain associated with pleasure, connection, and trust, which can cause a sense of warmth and comfort. When you do good deeds, you may experience higher self-esteem and a sense of connection with those around you. In addition, you can often see the tangible impact of your kindness on those you’re helping.
Whether you donate money, volunteer your time, or help a stranger in need, philanthropic acts allow you to give back to your community. The more you venture out and serve others, the stronger your ties to your neighbors may become. Philanthropy can also help you grow your support network and meet your social and emotional needs.
Ways to give back to your community for National Philanthropy Day
There are many ways to serve your community for National Philanthropy Day. Consider the below options when thinking about how to celebrate this year.
Volunteer at a shelter or soup kitchen
Consider donating your time to an organization that feeds food-insecure families and individuals. These places often need more help during the holidays, as more people may seek shelter and food in the colder months. You don’t necessarily need experience to volunteer. You can help in many ways, whether it’s food preparation, cleaning, case management support, security, front-desk monitoring, or donation sorting. Ask your local shelter, food bank, or soup kitchen how you can help. If you’re able, you can also donate food, clothes, money, or other resources.
Donate money
For those who have the means, donating money on National Philanthropy Day can make a significant difference in the efficacy of non-profits and other organizations. These groups often rely on donations and fundraising efforts to provide their services. Consider finding a non-profit you’re aligned with and offering them a monetary donation. Even a few dollars can make a difference. In addition, some philanthropic organizations and charitable individuals offer to match the gifts of people who donate to certain causes. Participating in a donation-matching campaign can help you multiply the effects of your contributions.
Make baked goods for your neighbors
November is part of the holiday season, so consider spreading the holiday spirit by making baked goods or snacks for your neighbors, coworkers, or other acquaintances. You could attach a kind or inspiring quote or message to each package to further spread joy. This method is also a way to get to know your neighbors better, which can benefit your mental health.
Give compliments
Complimenting others can release dopamine and improve confidence and self-esteem. When complimenting someone, try to think of attributes that are not only related to appearance. For example, you use one of the following compliments:
- “I love how your voice lights up the room.”
- “Your presence is so calming!”
- “You have a wonderful aura about you.”
- “I like your laugh!”
- “You’re so fun to talk to.”
- “I really admire your sharp mind.”
- “Your jokes are always so funny.”
- “I lose track of time when we hang out because I’m having so much fun.”
- “I like how you stand up for yourself and others.”
A well-timed compliment may open the door for conversation, especially with strangers, allowing you to make the acquaintance of someone you wouldn’t have met otherwise.
Practice “random acts of kindness”
Practicing random acts of kindness is an effective way of giving back, not only on National Philanthropy Day, but throughout the year. The following are ideas for random acts of kindness:
- Spend time with residents at a senior care home
- Pay for the order of a stranger at the coffee shop
- Make handmade bookmarks for others to take at a local library
- Let fellow drivers merge in traffic
- Organize a community clean-up
- Share a local business’s posts or products on your social media
- Recycle when you can
- Text someone you love a quote that made you think of them
Make hygiene care packs for people in need
You can also celebrate National Philanthropy Day by putting together hygiene packages for people who are unhoused. These packs could include toothbrushes, toothpaste, socks, underwear, deodorant, and toilet paper—items that can be difficult to procure for people in need. If you can, ask people directly what they need most and try to supply those items. You might also take an individual or family shopping to get seasonal items like coats, boots, and gloves. If you can afford to, consider purchasing a hotel voucher for someone on a cold night.
Ask loved ones how they’re doing
Reaching out to people you love is a simple but effective way of showing you care. Asking loved ones how they’re doing also opens the door to deeper conversations. Consider saying something like, “How are you feeling lately? If there’s anything you ever want to talk about, I’m here.” Doing so may show them that you’re genuinely interested in learning more about their feelings and thoughts.
Charities and organizations to support
There are non-profits in almost every sector and region of the country. So, you’ll likely be able to find an organization in your area that is aligned with a cause you care about. Below are some of the most popular charities in the US:
- The Jane Goodall Institute
- Friends of Animals
- Helen Keller International
- CancerCare
- Children International
- World Vision
- African Wildlife Foundation
- American Forests
- Coalition for the Homeless
- Human Rights Campaign
- ACLU
- Food for the Hungry
- Feeding America
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
- Trevor Project
- Mental Health America (MHA)
- Global Fund for Women
- Scholarship America
How to get involved without spending money
If you’re unable to donate to others, you can still get involved with charitable causes. Many volunteer opportunities, such as helping out at a soup kitchen, require no payment. You can also give out compliments, advice, and kindness—all of which are free. If you like giving gifts, consider hand making gifts (e.g., food) with what you already have at home.
How you can help internationally
International charities often seek donations from countries like the US, as the dollar is highly valued in many parts of the world. Donations to a developing country may allow you to make your money go further. Some organizations in the US allow you to donate in dollars, then convert the money to the other country’s local currency. You can also buy goods online using dollars and mail them to organizations or people across the globe.
Professional mental health support options
Philanthropic efforts can improve mental well-being and help build community. If you struggle with mental health challenges, consider working with a therapist online. Online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp can be a helpful way to get support as you work to help other people.
Online therapy is a convenient option for individuals who are busy volunteering and fulfilling other commitments, allowing clients to choose a session time that works best for them. In addition, online platforms can be more cost-effective, with BetterHelp memberships starting at $65 per week (billed every four weeks).
An increasingly large body of research suggests that online therapy is an effective form of care. In one broad-based review of studies, researchers concluded that online therapy can improve clients’ quality of life and reduce depression and anxiety symptoms.
Takeaway
National Philanthropy Day honors the contributions of many organizations and people who have made a difference in the lives of others. This day offers people an opportunity to give back to fellow citizens and foster change in their community. This National Philanthropy Day, consider donating to a non-profit, volunteering for a charitable cause, or simply doing a good deed for someone else. If you’d like mental health support as you provide assistance to others, consider seeking guidance from a therapist online or in your area.
Frequently asked questions
How to celebrate National Philanthropy Day?
National Philanthropy Day can be celebrated in many ways. Below are a few ideas for getting started:
- Donate to a charity or organization with messages or missions you believe in
- Become one of the volunteers of a local non-profit or society
- Donate used clothes, shoes, and other items to shelters in your community
- Sponsor someone in your community
- Make a commitment to offer your time or services to a local cause
- Join a philanthropic community
- Recognize and celebrate honorees of National Philanthropy Day
What happens on Philanthropy Day?
On November 15th each year, people nationwide celebrate Philanthropy Day by reflecting on the meaning of giving and the importance of connecting with community. Some communities may celebrate local philanthropic leaders or organizations dedicated to donating time, money, and items to communities in need. Others might host fundraisers, make donations, or volunteer to support local businesses and individuals. You can choose how you want to celebrate.
What is the history of National Philanthropy Day?
Douglas Freeman founded National Philanthropy Day in the 1980s. The first official celebration of this holiday was in 1986 after the presidential proclamation signed by President Reagan. Since the 80s, people around the nation have made an effort to donate to causes they believe in and to recognize the philanthropic efforts of others.
What is a philanthropy activity?
A philanthropic activity is any activity that benefits society, individuals, organizations, or groups in a positive prosocial way that contributes to a charitable cause. Charitable causes might include homelessness, animal abuse, and domestic violence, among other topics. Organizations that cater to supporting these causes and awareness about them can use donations to make real-life efforts to save people, animals, and the environment from harm and improve lives.
How do you practice philanthropy?
Philanthropy doesn’t necessarily involve donating large sums of money. Below are many ways you can practice philanthropy at any time of the year:
- Donate used clothes to a homeless shelter or human rights organization
- Donate your time by volunteering for an organization
- Offer peer support by volunteering for a hotline or chat to support others
- Get a side job to support an organization you believe in
- Donate money to an organization that supports a cause you believe in
- Offer physical labor to support building, mechanics, engineering, electric work, or plumbing if you have these skills
- Donate services like writing, web development, film, voice acting, art, social media marketing, SEO, babysitting, and other services to organizations and individuals who support causes you believe in
What is the meaning of philanthropy Day?
Philanthropy Day serves to remind others of the importance of giving back to charitable causes and other human beings. On this day, people might donate money or goods to organizations to make a difference in the world. You don’t have to be part of an organization or a well-known individual to be a philanthropist. You can donate at any time of the year, regardless of who you are.
When did philanthropy begin in the US?
Organized philanthropy by notable organizations and individuals can be traced back to the 1880s with the invention of the Peabody Education Fund by George Peabody in 1867. Many rich business people then established other funds and philanthropic organizations in the country to support causes like education, the environment, and human rights.
What is the difference between philanthropy and charity?
Philanthropy is a more long-term approach to addressing social causes and supporting communities, whereas charity is a direct short-term effort or donation. Philanthropy is often seen in organizations that dedicate a significant amount of time, money, and energy to supporting a cause. However, individuals can also be philanthropists.
What are examples of philanthropy?
Examples of philanthropy include the following:
- Donating money to a charity or philanthropic organization
- Volunteering your time over a long period to support a cause
- Donating to colleges and universities to support education
- Taking steps in your personal life to reduce your consumption of energy to better the environment
- Donating to research and grants
- Volunteering to participate in a clinical trial
- Donating blood or plasma
- Donating to creative programs
- Giving away services to your community
What to talk about on Philanthropy Day?
On Philanthropy Day, you might talk to others about the causes you support and believe in. If there’s a cause you don’t often see talked about, consider sharing information on this topic on social media to educate others. You can also encourage others to donate to an organization by matching donations up to a certain amount that you can afford.
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