Impact stories and news for the everyday hero • Blog • Spiral

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Impact stories and news for the everyday hero

<a href="https://www.givingtuesday.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GivingTuesday</a>, a global generosity movement launched in 2012 that takes place annually on the Tuesday following Black Friday and Cyber Monday, has been a powerful catalyst for charitable giving. Taking place on December 3rd this year, GivingTuesday has seen a total of $13 billion donated to nonprofits with a staggering $3.1 billion donated in 2023 alone.&nbsp;
These results combined with the fact that $374 billion was donated by individuals in 2023 and 3 out of 5 American households currently support charities, presents a unique opportunity for banks and credit unions to tap into a huge market and shine as community leaders. By offering Personalized Impact Experiences, your financial institution can provide a relevant place for people to support a network of 1.5 million nonprofits, deepening relationships with your account holders and attracting nonprofits for business banking and deposits.&nbsp;
You may wonder how it's possible for your financial institution to get involved with this movement, but it's much easier than you think. Join us as we uncover five ways you can stand out and amplify charitable giving on GivingTuesday.
<h3 dir="ltr">1. Leverage Spiral&rsquo;s Giving Center for Nonprofit Donations</h3>
Spiral offers financial institutions a powerful way to empower their account holders to give back. The Giving Center seamlessly integrates right within your digital banking environment and allows account holders to donate directly to 1.5 million nonprofits, local or national, from their everyday checking accounts. By promoting this digital experience, financial institutions create a hub for philanthropy, allowing users to browse, learn about, and donate to causes that resonate with them&mdash;all in one place. Encouraging account holders to use the Giving Center could significantly increase the volume of donations made on GivingTuesday (and throughout the year), resulting in increased account usage, deposits, and money movement! Plus, those who give through the Giving Center will have their donation receipts in one place and receive an annual donation report for tax purposes. Some fun facts:&nbsp;
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In 2024, Spiral helped send over $140,000 to nonprofits 💌&nbsp;
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Over 85% of donors choose to cover the fees
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80% of donors share their contact information with the nonprofit&nbsp;
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20% of donors are recurring givers&nbsp;
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The Giving Center allows financial institutions to showcase local or national nonprofits that are either community partners or nonprofit business clients, providing a great way to increase partnerships with these stakeholders and provide visibility for causes that will resonate with your account holders and community at large. Your financial institution becomes the hub for the community, increasing loyalty from your account holders and garnering positive brand visibility.&nbsp;
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<h3 dir="ltr">2. Empower Saving and Giving with Everyday Impact&trade;&nbsp;</h3>
Spiral's Everyday Impact&trade; experience empowers account holders to grow their savings and give back every day, including days like GivingTuesday. By using this tool, financial institutions can help their users improve their financial wellness while also displaying the social and environmental impacts of their purchases. For example, showcasing the number of trees planted, nights of safe shelter, or meals for the hungry.
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Everyday Impact makes charitable donations tangible, sparking an emotional connection from your account holders, increasing donation activity and leading to an overall increase in account activity that is unlike any other donor experience available today.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Promoting this digital experience leading up to GivingTuesday can increase awareness about the ongoing opportunities to make a difference, no matter how small the contribution. Educating your audience about how small, everyday actions lead to healthy financial habits can not only inspire more charitable giving, but keep deposits within your financial institution.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.spiral.us/products" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Learn more about Everyday Impact&trade; and the Giving Center</a>.&nbsp;
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<h3 dir="ltr">3. Match Donations to Engage Account Holders&nbsp;</h3>
Matching donations is a proven strategy for driving engagement. Financial institutions can pledge to match donations made to nonprofits through their digital banking channels, effectively doubling the impact of each contribution. Research from Double the Donation shows that "mentioning matching gifts results in a 71% increase in response rate and a 51% increase in average donation amount." By creating a matching campaign, credit unions and banks stand out as leaders of generosity in their communities and demonstrate their commitment to local and global causes.
<a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/amboy-bank-surpasses-fundraising-goal-for-world-hunger-day" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Learn how Amboy Bank exceeded their fundraising goal, raising over 150% in support of World Hunger Day</a>.
<h3 dir="ltr">4. Run Simple, Effective Campaigns That People Love (and Value)</h3>
To maximize awareness and drive deposits and donations through GivingTuesday initiatives, financial institutions should launch simple yet powerful marketing campaigns. Social media, emails, and in-branch promotions, paired with in-app messages and notifications, are great ways to raise awareness. Clear, concise messaging that highlights the ease of using the Giving Center and Everyday Impact&trade; through digital banking, as well as the opportunity to make a larger impact through matching donations, can motivate more people to participate.&nbsp;
Partnering with local nonprofits and using testimonials coming directly from your account holders can also enhance the authenticity and reach of your campaign. Plus, financial institutions working with Spiral receive custom marketing content to help promote their fundraising initiatives, making it quick and easy to add these new promotions to their existing content calendars. &nbsp;
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<h3 dir="ltr">5. Provide Ways for Everyone to Get Involved</h3>
To reach new community members through social good, you can also leverage Spiral's external donations experience that enables anyone, account holders or not, to donate securely via credit card, PayPal, Venmo, or Apple/Google Pay to local and national causes that matter most to your community. This option is ideal for raising awareness and funds for community events that aim to drive awareness and support for local nonprofits. An added benefit to this strategy is the potential for attracting new nonprofit business; by offering a way to increase awareness and donations through your digital banking, you're providing added value to your existing benefits package geared toward charitable organizations.&nbsp;
<h3 dir="ltr">Ready to Stand Out This GivingTuesday?&nbsp;</h3>
Financial institutions have a unique chance to lead in their communities by offering easy, impactful ways for their account holders to engage and give back&mdash;driving deposits, donations, and support for local nonprofit businesses. By utilizing digital experiences like Spiral's Giving Center and Everyday Impact&trade;, implementing donation matching, and running targeted marketing campaigns, banks and credit unions can significantly increase their impact within their communities. As the global movement continues to grow, this year's GivingTuesday could be your institution's opportunity to make a lasting impact. 💗
<h3 dir="ltr">Want to Know More?</h3>
To discover how Spiral's platform can help your institution launch personalized digital experiences and fundraisers, grow deposits, and attract new account holders, <a href="https://www.spiral.us/platform/signup">schedule a demo today</a>.

Join us as we uncover five ways your financial institution can stand out and amplify charitable giving on GivingTuesday.


GivingTuesday 2024: 5 Ways To Drive Deposits, Donations, and Impact In Your Communities

<ul class="is-style-none">
<li><a href="#how charities are formed">How Charities Are Formed</a></li>
<li><a href="#what is a public charity vs a private foundation">What Is A Public Charity vs A Private Foundation?</a></li>
<li><a href="#the different types of charities">The Different Types of Charity</a></li>
<li><a href="#ways to contribute to charities donate or volunteer">Ways To Contribute To Charities &ndash; Donate or Volunteer&nbsp;</a></li>
<li><a href="#what is the importance of charity">What Is the Importance of Charity?</a></li>
<li><a href="#how can spiral help with your giving">How can Spiral help with your giving?</a></li>
</ul>
Some words are so familiar that we use them without putting much thought into the actual meaning behind the word. For example, we hear and use the word &lsquo;charity&rsquo; often but what is charity?
Charity is a humanitarian act of donating to an organization designated for a specific cause to help those in need. This help is given in the form of goods, money, or time with the goal of benefitting society. This aid is given without expecting anything in return and is the highest form of caring and unselfish love towards our fellow humans.
<figure class="wp-block-image is-resized"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/9hx51OdKAmlWSbblfqeIXVL9BJQVlud6Kq_s_3RIt3zbIWz_t7h88Q_VyhgUVBgZlDsdbVreOkHbVjKmg3AQJq02GnwZS8aRBBF2UIVwI6Il49SOEqjUdMKELDZ2lZmJdD5jFK6Y" alt="What Is A Charity? A Guide To Giving" width="800" height="450" loading="lazy">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/capri23auto-1767157/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=3129340">Capri23auto</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=3129340">Pixabay</a>&nbsp;</figcaption>
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<h2>How Charities Are Formed</h2>
Ever wonder how charities are formed? Forming and operating a charity varies from state-to-state and from one country to another. One basic requirement is to register and file the non-profit organization within the state it&rsquo;s formed and operates.&nbsp;
To do this on the state level, you will need to set up Articles of Incorporation. The Articles of Incorporation include the following:
&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Name
&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Effective Date
&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Member Information
&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Corporation Type
&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Registered Agent
&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Principal Office Address
&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Mailing Address
&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Director Information
&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Indemnification Against Personal Liability
&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Organization&rsquo;s Purpose
&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Prohibited Activities
&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Distributions Upon Dissolution
Check with the<a href="https://www.nasconet.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> National Association of State Charity Officials</a> for further information by state.
Once the Articles of Incorporation are approved by the state you must do the following:
&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Apply for a<a href="https://www.irs.gov/charities-and-nonprofits" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Federal Employer Identification Number</a> from the IRS
&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Open a Bank Account for the Charity
&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Apply for<a href="https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/exempt-organization-types" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> 501(c)(3) Status</a> With the IRS
&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Register as a Charity
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<figure class="aligncenter is-resized"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/eaZLtKHyFohKcpCrnhcNKRRUJwA8XIDEueJKh_ev5hAE284uZeqVhhlGYqXmo0SIPSRZV6raGkmst_Ft1S-kz9C7wKX90ipSBrx6ZH--_Kt6kTNnZUU12697msZ6s5vtGfWK0c58" alt="What Is A Charity? A Guide To Giving" width="800" height="329" loading="lazy">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/bluebudgie-4333174/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=3713363">bluebudgie</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=3713363">Pixabay</a>&nbsp;</figcaption>
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<h2>What Is A Public Charity vs A Private Foundation?</h2>
Charitable organizations operate either as a public or as a private charity. The difference depends on the source of funding. Charities typically receive their money from donations and grants and both are classified as tax-exempt by the IRS.
Private foundations get their funding from a single financial source such as an individual, family, or corporation and these sources receive a tax deduction for their donations.
Private organizations, which are overseen by trustees or the donors themselves, typically make grants or give funds to public charities. Some examples of private foundations include the<a href="https://www.coca-colacompany.com/shared-future/coca-cola-foundation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Coca-Cola Foundation, Inc.</a>, the<a href="https://www.waltonfamilyfoundation.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Walton Family Foundation</a>, and<a href="https://www.gatesfoundation.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation</a>.
Public charities are governed by a board of directors and receive financial support from the public sector such as government, corporations, individuals, foundations, or trusts.
Examples of public charities are<a href="https://m25m.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Matthew 25: Ministries</a> and<a href="https://okfoodbank.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma</a> and are two of the <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/best-charities-to-donate-to/">best charities to donate to</a> according to<a href="https://www.charitynavigator.org/index.cfm?bay=content.view&amp;cpid=2203" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Charity Navigator</a>. Most public charities conduct charitable activities and provide services.
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<figure class="aligncenter is-resized"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/KsmiGXKCLk_-7aGHmkcZ43MXDp5-KGIBEKL1sMW3OzfWpTHX5ii591nEYKRh1zdpHV7QsOw9grN8ZkfExZA1_FaAdEpPBiVqzZHzj3A45kucxeI-mkjj23Oi6nfzXqhLZzXTNKJG" alt="What Is A Charity? A Guide To Giving" width="400" height="349" loading="lazy">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/alexas_fotos-686414/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1116184">Hier und jetzt endet leider meine Reise auf Pixabay aber</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1116184">Pixabay</a>&nbsp;</figcaption>
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<h2>The Different Types of Charity&nbsp;</h2>
There are many different types of charity each representing a specific cause. The following is a list of the type or category charities typically fall into and their mission:
&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Arts, Culture, Humanities &ndash; to promote artistic and cultural development and preserve its heritage
&nbsp;&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Human and Civil Rights &ndash; to defend civil rights and promote reform
&nbsp;&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Religion &ndash; to support religion, religious activities, and worship
&nbsp;&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Community Development &ndash; to promote economic growth and stability through affordable housing and to enhance public and private institutions
&nbsp;&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Environment &ndash; to preserve and protect the environment through research and conservation
&nbsp;&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Education &ndash; to provide opportunities to make schools more effective and accessible to all students regardless of background
&nbsp;&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Health &ndash; to promote treatment &amp; prevention services, patient &amp; family support, and medical research
&nbsp;&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; International &ndash; to promote peace, defend human rights, and provide relief and development services
&nbsp;&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Animals &ndash; to defend, protect, and provide services to domestic, wild animals, endangered species, and their habitats
&nbsp;&middot;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Human Services &ndash; to provide services to people in need through social services, youth development, rescue missions, homeless services, food pantries, food banks, and food distributions
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<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img class="wp-post-1235 wp-image-1401" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/spiral/images/w_600,h_450/v1625478097/wordpress-uploads/what-is-charity/what-is-charity.jpg?_i=AA" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/spiral/images/v1625478097/wordpress-uploads/what-is-charity/what-is-charity.jpg?_i=AA 800w, https://res.cloudinary.com/spiral/images/v1625478097/wordpress-uploads/what-is-charity/what-is-charity.jpg?_i=AA 300w, https://res.cloudinary.com/spiral/images/v1625478097/wordpress-uploads/what-is-charity/what-is-charity.jpg?_i=AA 768w, https://res.cloudinary.com/spiral/images/v1625478097/wordpress-uploads/what-is-charity/what-is-charity.jpg?_i=AA 400w, https://res.cloudinary.com/spiral/images/v1625478097/wordpress-uploads/what-is-charity/what-is-charity.jpg?_i=AA 200w" alt="what is charity" width="600" height="450" loading="lazy" data-public-id="wordpress-uploads/what-is-charity.jpg" data-attachment-id="1401" data-permalink="https://blogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com/2021/06/28/what-is-a-charity-a-guide-to-giving/what-is-charity/" data-orig-file="https://i0.wp.com/blogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/what-is-charity.jpg?fit=800%2C600&amp;ssl=1" data-orig-size="800,600" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="what-is-charity" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://i0.wp.com/blogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/what-is-charity.jpg?fit=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1" data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/blogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/what-is-charity.jpg?fit=750%2C563&amp;ssl=1" data-recalc-dims="1" data-format="jpg" data-transformations="" data-version="1625478097">
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<h2>Ways To Contribute To Charities &ndash; Donate or Volunteer&nbsp;</h2>
You don&rsquo;t have to have an abundance of money to contribute to a charity. You can give a little, or you can give a lot. Most people associate giving with a monetary contribution but there are other ways that are just as valuable. Some of these include the following:
1. &nbsp; Volunteering your time at soup kitchens, homeless shelters, food pantries, animal rescues, etc.
&nbsp;2. &nbsp; Volunteering your services using special or professional skills like building homes for <a href="https://www.habitat.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Habitat for Humanity</a>.
&nbsp;3. &nbsp; Donate goods which might include clothing, shoes, furniture, or a vehicle.
&nbsp;4. &nbsp; Organize a drive to collect donations for an organization.
&nbsp;5. &nbsp; Provide a fundraiser to raise money for a charity.
&nbsp;6. &nbsp; Use services that support charities such as<a href="https://www.spiral.us/"> Spiral banking</a>&sup1; services, where you can use the app to donate. Spiral will even match donations made within their mobile app, up to $150 per year&sup3;. What could be better than doubling your donation?
&nbsp;7. &nbsp; Check with your employer to see if they offer gift<a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/are-matching-donations-real-how-to-maximize-your-charitable-giving/"> matching where they will match part or all of your charitable donations</a>.
&nbsp;8. &nbsp; Donate your tax refund.
&nbsp;9.&nbsp; &nbsp; As a holiday or birthday gift idea, donate to a charity instead. Facebook will let friends donate to a cause chosen by the person with the birthday.
10.&nbsp; Donate your credit card rewards by donating your cash back, points, or miles directly to the charity.
&nbsp;11.&nbsp; Get a charity-focused credit card that is specifically designed for giving to charities.
&nbsp;12.&nbsp; Donate your organs by registering with the<a href="https://www.donatelife.net/national-donate-life-registry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> National Donate Life&nbsp; &nbsp; Registry</a>.
&nbsp;13.&nbsp; Donate blood to organizations such as the<a href="https://www.donatelife.net/national-donate-life-registry/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> American Red Cross</a>.
The question that pops up most often with monetary contributions is how to decide how much to donate to charity. According to <a href="https://www.marketwatch.com/story/how-much-money-should-you-be-giving-to-charity-2018-09-24#:~:text=Copia%20Wealth%20Management%20%26%20Insurance%20Services,is%203%25%20to%205%25." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MarketWatch</a>, the middle ground is around 4% of your adjusted gross income. Of course, how much you donate is entirely up to you.
What does charity mean to you? Some of these donations aren&rsquo;t monetary like donating your organs to save the life of another person. For some, it&rsquo;s the ultimate sacrifice.
When you give to a charity you don&rsquo;t expect anything in return. However, there are tax advantages for both the organization and the donor due to the direct benefit to society which results in qualified charities being exempt from paying federal income taxes.
Cash donations and non-cash donations such as household <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/how-to-get-tax-breaks-for-donations/">items are tax-deductible</a> expenses for the donor.
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<figure class="aligncenter is-resized"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/wiZIQXdotCH1xxMMuP8bKRIUAdnMi2FdU-khIhBGg4Qel8AZdoDYJLwGoW_kcNXGqSOifGGzsfQ5SNB11x05F6T_H6foFFMEKin4mgWaOGD4FmGngN_qgXhxoifRFoqKUx6cvm-s" alt="t Is the Importance of Charity" width="640" height="320" loading="lazy">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/905513-905513/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1331096">Mary Pahlke</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1331096">Pixabay</a>&nbsp;</figcaption>
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<h2>What Is the Importance of Charity?</h2>
<a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/what-is-the-importance-of-charity/">What is the importance of charity</a> and do charities actually help? They absolutely do!
Charities benefit society and anything that benefits society is important. Charitable organizations raise awareness of issues such as human rights, public health, poverty, racial equality, sustainability, and offer hope for those in need.
Charities also help create a better future for humanity and generations to come. They teach future generations how important compassion, generosity, and coming together as a community are in creating a more peaceful world and, therefore, a more fulfilled life. Overall, it makes the world a better place for everyone.
How are charities funded? Charities are funded either by the public or the private sector through cash donations, non-cash donations, and volunteering.
The monetary contributions received by charitable organizations are not about making a profit but about making a difference to society.
Now that you have a clear picture of what is charity and how charity works, You can make a difference today by supporting a cause of your choice.
<h2>How can you make an impact with Spiral Giving&trade;?&nbsp;</h2>
<a href="https://spiral.us">Spiral is the pioneer of the Impact-as-a-Service&trade;</a> platform that helps banks and financial institutions easily embed sustainability, social impact, ESG, and CSR into their businesses. Their mission is to empower 10,000+ U.S. financial institutions and millions of people to contribute to a better world.

Everything you need to know about charities, how to give, and how to volunteer.


What Is Charity? A Guide To Giving

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/PDjESmKK6f0U2f5uytVgIITQTNyMrL2bsoCk3F1cvNxn6RowocE55pRwxZJN7ZjUFdf8BusBCe1z4LICAmSn8aS0aI6ylPHdr7Os5GH1XpOZ3Dydndh3N3dYqt7ZSFWXPOiUgWMI" alt="Are Matching Donations Real? How to Maximize Your Charitable Giving">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo by<a href="https://unsplash.com/@kattyukawa?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText"> Katt Yukawa</a> on<a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/charity?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText"> Unsplash</a></figcaption>
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What&rsquo;s ahead:
<ul class="is-style-none">
<li><a style="background-color: var(--wp--preset--color--background); font-family: var(--font-base, 'Noto Sans', -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', 'Roboto', 'Oxygen', 'Ubuntu', 'Cantarell', 'Fira Sans', 'Droid Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif);" href="#what is a matching donation">What is a matching donation?</a></li>
<li><a href="#is donation matching legitimate">Is donation matching legitimate?</a></li>
<li><a href="#how can i get matching donations">How can I get matching donations?</a></li>
<li><a href="#how does spiral match donations">How does Spiral match donations?</a></li>
<li><a href="#what are some of the top charities to donate to">what are some of the top charities to donate to</a></li>
<li><a href="#start giving back and make an impact now">Start giving back and make an impact now </a></li>
<li><a href="#key takeaways">Key Takeaways</a></li>
</ul>
Everybody has probably seen advertisements from charities and nonprofits claiming to offer matching donations that can enhance the impact of your charitable giving.&nbsp;
You will see claims that these matching donations will double or triple your impact. Many people will get excited about the opportunity to do something for a good cause, but may also be wondering, &ldquo;Are these matching donations real?&rdquo;
Before moving forward you will want to understand exactly what you are signing up for. How do matching donations work? What is matched giving?
The following is a breakdown of what is involved in matched giving along with <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/what-is-the-importance-of-charity/">important information you need to know before you start donating</a> to your worthy cause.
<h2 id="what-is-a-matching-donation">What is a matching donation?</h2>
Matching donations are funds that are promised to be donated to a certain charitable cause in proportion to the amount donated from other donors.
Many times foundations and corporations will offer to donate to a nonprofit or charity at a preset ratio, usually 1:1.&nbsp;
For example, a foundation may promise to donate one dollar to match each dollar raised from individual donors responding to a particular solicitation sent in the mail or a specific email.&nbsp;
<h2 id="is-donation-matching-legitimate">Is donation matching legitimate?</h2>
Offering to match donations is completely legal and is a legitimate method for charities and nonprofit organizations to encourage people to give more.&nbsp;
Sixty-five percent of Fortune 500 firms are companies that match donations. More than 18 million people in the U.S. work for a company which offers matching donations to charitable and humanitarian causes.&nbsp;
<h2 id="how-can-i-get-matching-donations">How can I get matching donations?</h2>
Now that you have a good idea of what matched donations are and how they work, you may be excited at the potential of enhancing the impact of your charitable giving.
At this point, you might be asking yourself, &ldquo;How do I get my donations matched?&rdquo; In fact, there are a variety of different ways to have your charitable giving matched.
One way to get your donations matched is to see if your current employer is offering donation matching. Contact your HR team to learn more about giving options.&nbsp;
Another avenue for matching donations is through a foundation which has granted a nonprofit a certain amount of funds in the form of matching donations. Usually, the nonprofit will have to raise <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matching_funds#Charitable_donations" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a specified amount of money </a>from individual donors before the matching funds are released.&nbsp;
These kinds of arrangements help a nonprofit to leverage its already-existent constituents, enhancing the impact of these individual donors in helping a worthy cause.
Banks and financial institutions are some of the types of companies most commonly offering their employees the opportunity to enhance their giving through a matching donation program.&nbsp;
However, it is not often that a banking services provider will offer its customers this same opportunity.&nbsp;
This is what makes Spiral unique.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.spiral.us/">Spiral is the pioneer of an Impact-as-a-Service&trade; platform</a> that helps banks and financial institutions offer donation matching to their customers. Spiral allows banks and financial institutions easily embed sustainability, social impact, ESG, and CSR into their businesses. Their mission is to empower 10,000+ U.S. financial institutions and millions of people to contribute to a better world.
<h2 id="what-are-the-10-best-charities-to-donate-to">The following are some of the top charitable causes:</h2>
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter is-resized"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/FCoDY7Cx1Nir-CtlUlg0OdQZ7cV8Sl9pDBdnVmIiQm9MLqmJLap3rwePIHnjJnC8WKOgZ6SbFU0AuRBbJJQut2n3tRBLAcC9RL2rFtUtFomW9Xcli3c_mcQCkA6oP4oBe2UbULmk" alt="Are Matching Donations Real? How to Maximize Your Charitable Giving" width="480" height="480" loading="lazy">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo by Spiral</figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
Matching campaigns can enhance the <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/best-charities-to-donate-to/">impact of your charitable giving.</a>
The following are some of the top charitable causes that qualify for Spiral&rsquo;s matching donation program.
These charities have been carefully selected based upon legitimacy and the positive impact on society.
1.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cultureforone.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Culture For One</a> &ndash; Provides opportunities to expose New York City foster children to the arts and creativity.
2. <a href="https://www.herhealtheq.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HERHealthEQ</a> &ndash; Focuses on providing women with equitable standards of healthcare in the developing world. The organization provides medical device equipment that is needed for the treatment of non-communicable diseases.
3. <a href="https://foundationforclimaterestoration.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Foundation for Climate Restoration</a> &ndash; Advocates for climate restoration and environmental issues through educational conventions, training and conferences. Also, the organization advocates for policy changes at a local governmental level through petitions and other activities.
4. <a href="https://davidortizchildrensfund.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">David Ortiz Children&rsquo;s Fund</a> &ndash; Provides support for children needing critical cardiac services in the Dominican Republic and New England.
5. <a href="https://wayuutaya.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wayuu Taya</a> &ndash; Focusing on improving the quality of life for indigenous communities in Latin America. This organization helps indigenous communities obtain access to healthcare, water, food and livelihood.&nbsp;
6. <a href="https://knockknockgiveasock.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Knock Knock Give A Sock</a> &ndash; Helps to organize sock drives which aim to provide homeless individuals with fresh socks, a resource which is always in high demand among the unhoused population.&nbsp;
7. <a href="https://www.keepgunsoffcampus.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Campaign To Keep Guns Off Campus</a>&nbsp; &ndash; Works to organize against policy proposals that would result in more guns on college campuses. The organization advocates for colleges and universities to ban together to oppose the agenda of the gun lobby.
8. <a href="https://forbesfunds.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Forbes Funds</a> &ndash; Assists in building management capacity for Pittsburgh-based nonprofit organizations. The organization has helped over 530 nonprofits to improve their operations.&nbsp;
9. <a href="https://www.backpacksforlife.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Backpacks For Life</a> &ndash; Distributes backpacks to homeless veterans. The organization also provides coaching and mentoring for unhoused veterans in order to help them overcome a variety of hardships with the aim of improving their quality of life.
10. <a href="https://cparf.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Foundation</a> &ndash; Funds researchers who are working to develop new treatments and ways to prevent cerebral palsy. The foundation forms global partnerships with researchers, institutes, and other foundations to enhance and enable scientific research on cognitive disorder.&nbsp;
<h2 id="start-giving-back-and-make-an-impact-now">Start giving back and make an impact now</h2>
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter is-resized"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/hFanT2FssJi8-t1gzMPdxJzA52HpY8RVKyosMOoPKdaVwNvOF2w71JN4dHP27KV649Xb2PCfLjDIU7_25Ph0f8hPj2fYmCAWs-bLcGNhjodBDeJ6eo4Igz0k_N_KVKHuGNZkf2e2" alt="Are Matching Donations Real? How to Maximize Your Charitable Giving" width="540" height="540" loading="lazy">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo by Spiral</figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
There is no better time than now to start making a difference in the lives of others. The world is full of suffering unfortunately, but the good news is that you have the power to do something about it.
Learn which are <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/best-charities-to-donate-to/">the best charities to donate to</a>!&nbsp;
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter is-resized"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1_emNnRxmGbRYybVc_oS_04C6MJS8gOzZvTPA0zcQKzTxh2K_ouou4qQeXW7FMsUy0lCfB6WsD_j_O9b769B34jVPI8-U8EBjCE1gq0oUPGSCmhCxf0OaYVtRWx-9FJ-9zoszh6H" alt="Are Matching Donations Real? How to Maximize Your Charitable Giving" width="450" height="800" loading="lazy">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo by<a href="https://unsplash.com/@nicosmit99?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText"> Nico Smit</a> on<a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/charity?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText"> Unsplash</a></figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
<h2 id="key-takeaways">Key Takeaways</h2>
<ul>
<li>Matching donations can allow you to enhance the positive impact of giving to charitable causes.</li>
<li>Donation matching is legitimate and completely legal.</li>
<li>Employers may offer donation matching programs.</li>
<li>Some banking services, that use Spiral, also offer donation matching initiatives.</li>
</ul>

Are matching donations real? What to look out for when giving back. A guide to maximizing your philanthropy. Also, a list of the best charities and nonprofits.


Are Matching Donations Real? How to Maximize Your Charitable Giving

&ldquo;The environment is everything that isn&rsquo;t me.&rdquo; &ndash; Albert Einstein
Have you heard of <a href="https://www.worldenvironmentday.global/about/world-environment-day" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Environment Day</a>? It is a <a href="https://www.un.org/en/observances/list-days-weeks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">day created by the United Nations</a> that spreads environmental action and awareness. Throughout its history, supporters have tackled sustainable topics such as plastic consumption, global warming, and <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/world-ocean-day/">ocean preservation</a>.
But there&rsquo;s so much more to learn about this underrated day. We&rsquo;ve got the history, fun facts, and answers.&nbsp;
<h2>Quick World Environment Day Facts:&nbsp;</h2>
<ul>
<li>When was is first celebrated? In 1974</li>
<li>When is celebrated? On June 5th every year.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/press-release/pakistan-host-world-environment-day-2021" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Where will it be hosted</a> in 2021? Pakistan&nbsp;</li>
<li>What is the theme of World Environment Day in 2021? &ldquo;Ecosystem Restoration&rdquo;.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h2>Why June 5th is celebrated as World Environment Day</h2>
People from all over the world celebrate it on June 5th because it was first discussed on June 5, 1972, <a href="https://www.un.org/en/conferences/environment/stockholm1972" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">at the Stockholm Conference</a> on the Human Environment.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Held in Stockholm, Sweden, the conference ran from June 5th &ndash; Jun 16th and made history as the first international conference to discuss environmental issues and how humans should take action.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Two years later, in 1974, the <a href="https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/milestones/humanenvironment" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UN dedicated June 5th</a> as World Environment Day.&nbsp;
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img class="wp-post-1240 wp-image-1278" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/spiral/images/v1624262437/wordpress-uploads/Screen-Shot-2021-06-21-at-12.43/Screen-Shot-2021-06-21-at-12.43.45-AM-1" alt="Why June 5th is celebrated as World Environment Day" data-attachment-id="1278" data-permalink="https://blogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com/?attachment_id=1278" data-orig-file="https://blogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Screen-Shot-2021-06-21-at-12.43.45-AM-1" data-orig-size="666,370" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="Screen Shot 2021-06-21 at 12.43.45 AM" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://blogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Screen-Shot-2021-06-21-at-12.43.45-AM-1-300x167.png" data-large-file="https://blogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Screen-Shot-2021-06-21-at-12.43.45-AM-1">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo from <a href="https://www.onepercentfortheplanet.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1 Percent for the Planet</a></figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
<h2>What is the importance?</h2>
<a href="https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/press-release/pakistan-host-world-environment-day-2021" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">According to the UN&rsquo;s website</a>, World Environment Day &ldquo;is the principal vehicle for encouraging worldwide awareness and action for the Environment.&rdquo;
Since its start in 1974, the day has been an essential platform for environmental change, and over <a href="https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/press-release/colombia-host-2020-world-environment-day-biodiversity" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">150 countries participate each year</a>.&nbsp;
It&rsquo;s no surprise that annually, millions of individuals take part. And, in addition to world governments &ndash; individuals, communities, organizations, and even celebrities continue to jump on board.&nbsp;
Since implemented in 1974, this day has spread change and awareness on notable environmental issues like the depletion of the ozone layer, toxic chemicals, desertification, and global warming.&nbsp;
<h2>What is the focus of World Environment Day?</h2>
World Environment Day is a time when world leaders meet and discuss ideas for change.&nbsp;
On this day, the UN heavily emphasizes environmental education, which according to <a href="https://www.epa.gov/education/what-environmental-education" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the United States Environmental Protection Agency</a> (EPA) fosters positive skills, attitudes, and participation towards protecting our world.&nbsp;
The UN&rsquo;s specific goals for this day involve spreading awareness of environmental issues through education, reading, quizzes, and more. You can <a href="https://www.un.org/en/observances/environment-day" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">find more info on the organization&rsquo;s site</a>.&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Check out <a href="https://www.worldenvironmentday.global/get-involved/register-event" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">this page on the UN&rsquo;s site</a> where individuals and groups can register environmental events around the globe.</li>
</ul>
In a nutshell, the focus of World Environment Day is to mark a dedicated occasion for countries to brainstorm and take steps towards creating a sustainable world.&nbsp;
<h2>History of World Environment Day:</h2>
To better understand World Environment Day and how it has made such an impact, explore the brief timeline below:
<ul>
<li>1972 &ndash; The idea for the day was discussed at the Stockholm Conference in Sweden.</li>
<li>1974 &ndash; <a href="https://www.business-standard.com/about/when-is-world-environment-day" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The first World Environment Day</a> took place with the theme: &ldquo;Only One Earth.&rdquo;&nbsp;</li>
<li>1987 &ndash; The day was celebrated at the <a href="https://unon.org/content/welcome-united-nations-office-nairobi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UN headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya</a>.&nbsp; <a href="https://digitallibrary.un.org/record/499458?ln=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Global 500</a> awards began and were given to environmental champions beginning and lasting through 2003.</li>
<li>1988 &ndash;&nbsp; Official rotations of the day at different host countries around the globe started.</li>
<li>1989 &ndash;&nbsp; Global warming awareness becomes a focus of World Environment Day in <a href="https://www.unep.org/regions/europe/our-branches-europe/brussels-liaison-office-european-union" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brussels, Belgium (the host country)</a>.&nbsp;</li>
<li>1992 &ndash;&nbsp; The UN Conference on Environment World Environment Day coincided with the UN Conference on Environment in <a href="https://www.un.org/en/conferences/environment/rio1992" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rio de Janeiro, Brazil</a>.&nbsp;</li>
<li>1995 &ndash;&nbsp; Nelson Mandela attends the event, and South Africa hosts the Day&nbsp;</li>
<li>2000 &ndash; The UN launches a comprehensive World Environment day website.</li>
<li>2005 &ndash; North America hosted World Enment Day for the first time.</li>
<li>2011 &ndash; The online presence and followers of the day grow, and a whopping four thousand activities related to WorldEnvironment Day are registered worldwide.</li>
<li>2015 &ndash;&nbsp; More than <a href="https://www.worldenvironmentday.global/about/world-environment-day" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">500 YOUTUBE videos</a> about World Environment Day are posted.&nbsp;</li>
<li>2018 &ndash; India hosts with the theme &ldquo;Beat Plastic Pollution&rdquo;. The theme encouraged the clean-up of 90,000 kg of plastic and set the motion for plastic bans in India and other countries.</li>
<li>2020 &ndash; With Covid-19 raging on, Colombia hosted World Environment Day with the theme of &ldquo;Biodiversity.&rdquo;&nbsp;</li>
<li>2021 &ndash; After 14 world leaders encouraged other countries to take action at the World Environment Day 2020, <a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/science/50-countries-vow-to-protect-30-percent-of-land-and-sea-by-2030" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">50 Countries vowed to protect 30 percent of the planet&rsquo;s land and ocean</a> by 2030.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
The UN designated Pakistan as the World Environment Day Host with a theme of Ecosystem Restoration&rdquo; following a dark pandemic year.
<h2>What can I do for it?</h2>
So you know more about the history and meaning behind World Environment Day, but you&rsquo;re still wondering what you can do this June 5th to leave a mark?&nbsp;
Here are a few ideas to help save the planet:
<ul>
<li>Go carless for a day (or carpool)</li>
<li>Eat vegan or vegetarian for a day</li>
<li>Go powerless for a day</li>
<li>Try to use no plastic the entire day</li>
<li>Volunteer for an animal rescue</li>
<li>Clean up your neighborhood</li>
<li>Create awareness by posting about the day on your social media feed</li>
<li>Read an <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/eco-friendly-living" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">environmentally-friendly book</a>&nbsp;</li>
<li>Watch an <a href="https://filmsfortheearth.org/en/films" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ecological movie</a></li>
<li>Weigh your individual or family&rsquo;s food waste for a day and then try to do better the next day</li>
<li>Write a <a href="https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">letter to your local Congress member</a> about environmental changes or laws you&rsquo;d like to see.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h2>How to celebrate World Environment Day in school</h2>
Here are some ideas on how to celebrate the occasion in school that you can bring to the attention of your local school board, teachers, or administration.
<ul>
<li>Plant a tree at your school or send kids home with <a href="https://onetreeplanted.org/pages/grade-schools" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">small trees for them to plant</a> at home.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Organize a book or clothes swap.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Revamp or start a recycling program with student volunteers.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Go outside and have your students make a nature sculpture.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Weigh your <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6835983/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">school&rsquo;s food waste</a> for a day and do lessons around decreasing waste.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Discuss or create a poster about ways students can go green at school and home.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Do a short research project on ways to protect the environment.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Explore the United Nations World Environment Day website. Teachers can make a scavenger hunt or worksheet about the website as a quick, informative assignment.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Research and write a report on ways to protect the environment. Then choose a few as a class to put into action.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img class="wp-post-1240 wp-image-1244" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/spiral/images/w_490,h_170/v1624059624/wordpress-uploads/00-Enviroment/00-Enviroment.png?_i=AA" sizes="(max-width: 490px) 100vw, 490px" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/spiral/images/v1624059624/wordpress-uploads/00-Enviroment/00-Enviroment.png?_i=AA 343w, https://res.cloudinary.com/spiral/images/v1624059624/wordpress-uploads/00-Enviroment/00-Enviroment.png?_i=AA 300w" alt="Did you know? (exciting facts related to the Environment)" width="490" height="170" loading="lazy" data-public-id="wordpress-uploads/00-Enviroment.png" data-attachment-id="1244" data-permalink="https://blogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com/2021/06/18/world-environment-day-facts-history-ways-to-celebrate-and-more/00-enviroment/" data-orig-file="https://i0.wp.com/blogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/00-Enviroment.png?fit=343%2C118&amp;ssl=1" data-orig-size="343,118" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="00-Enviroment" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://i0.wp.com/blogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/00-Enviroment.png?fit=300%2C103&amp;ssl=1" data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/blogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/00-Enviroment.png?fit=343%2C118&amp;ssl=1" data-recalc-dims="1" data-format="png" data-transformations="" data-version="1624059624">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo from <a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shutterstock</a></figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
<h2>Did you know? (exciting facts related to the Environment)</h2>
Awareness is vital, and to get you thinking about this year&rsquo;s World Environment Day, we&rsquo;ve put together some exciting facts about the Environment.&nbsp;
<ol>
<li><a href="https://sustainability.georgetown.edu/50-facts-for-50-years/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">If you recycle just one aluminum can</a>, you will save enough energy to run a television for 3 hours.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
<ol start="2">
<li><a href="https://globalewaste.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">53.6 million metric tons of e-waste</a> were generated in 2019.</li>
</ol>
<ol start="3">
<li>Since the late 1800s, <a href="https://climate.nasa.gov/evidence/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the planet&rsquo;s average surface temperature</a> has risen about 2.12 degrees Fahrenheit.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
<ol start="4">
<li>The world consumes around <a href="https://www.ecofriendlyhabits.com/eco-friendly-stats/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">100 million tons </a>of plastic each day.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
<ol start="6">
<li>Climate change has caused <a href="https://sloactive.com/world-environment-day/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">21.5 million people</a> to have been forcibly displaced since 2008.&nbsp;</li>
<li>In 2019 the earth <a href="https://www.wri.org/insights/we-lost-football-pitch-primary-rainforest-every-6-seconds-2019" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lost a football field of primary rainforest</a> every 6 seconds.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
<h2>The Bottom Line:</h2>
Now you have the information and tools to get started and make an impact this June 5th on World Environment Day.&nbsp;
Whether it&rsquo;s spreading your new-found knowledge about small ways to protect our world, organizing a school-wide swap, or writing letters to congress, you can make an impact.&nbsp;
After all, when it comes to our world, we are all in this together. What are you going to do to make a change?&nbsp;

World Environment Day is a day created by the United Nations that spreads environmental action and awareness. Find out the history, fun facts, and answers to your World Environment Day questions here.


World Environment Day: Facts, History, Ways to Celebrate, and More

What&rsquo;s ahead:
<ul class="is-style-none">
<li><a href="#when is world ocean day and what is it about">When is World Ocean Day and what is it about?</a></li>
<li><a href="#the theme and the decade theme of the ocean day celebration">The 2021 theme and the decade theme of the Ocean Day celebration</a></li>
<li><a href="#did you know">Did you know?</a></li>
<li><a href="#the importance of the ocean for sustaining a habitable climate">The importance of the ocean for sustaining a habitable climate</a></li>
<li><a href="#the ocean provides nourishment and medicine">The ocean provides nourishment and medicine</a></li>
<li><a href="#the importance of the ocean to the us economy">The importance of the ocean to the U.S. economy</a></li>
<li><a href="#how to help keep the ocean clean and sustainable">How to help keep the ocean clean and sustainable</a></li>
<li><a href="#what to do for world ocean day">What to do for World Ocean Day</a></li>
<li><a href="#key takeaways">Key Takeaways</a></li>
</ul>
The ocean is a vital part of sustaining life of all forms on Earth. We simply cannot survive without it! This is why the U.N. has created World Ocean Day, which aims to educate and bring awareness to the devastation that human activity has caused to the ocean, and what we can do about it to create a better future for our planet.
<h2>When is World Ocean Day and what is it about?</h2>
The U.N. has designed June 8 as World Ocean Day. The aim of the holiday is to remind people of the importance of the ocean for sustaining life on the planet and what you can do to help preserve this essential natural resource.
<h2>The 2021 theme and the decade theme of the Ocean Day celebration&nbsp;</h2>
The official theme for Ocean Day 2021 is &ldquo;The Ocean: Life and Livelihoods.&rdquo; The goal for the new decade is to achieve the stated U.N. <a href="https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal14" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sustainable Development Goal 14</a>, which is to &ldquo;conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources.&rdquo;
What this means is strengthening international collaboration in new technologies and scientific research that connects global commerce with the ocean sciences.&nbsp;
Currently, the U.N. strategy to accomplish Goal 14 is specifically focused on working with the international community to put more resources into <a href="https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/report/2020/goal-14/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">combating illegal fishing activity</a> which is harmful to the sustainability of the world&rsquo;s fish population.
<h2>Did you know?</h2>
<ul>
<li>The ocean covers <a href="https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/why-care-about-ocean.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">70 percent of the world&rsquo;s surface</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.defense.gov/Explore/Features/story/Article/1737193/hitting-bottom-submariner-explored-deepest-part-of-ocean/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">More people have been to the moon</a> than to the deepest part of the ocean</li>
<li>About <a href="https://www.livescience.com/55015-amazing-ocean-facts.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">94 percent of life</a> on Earth is aquatic</li>
<li>Around <a href="https://www.livescience.com/55015-amazing-ocean-facts.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">two-thirds of ocean life</a> has yet to be identified</li>
</ul>
<h2>The importance of the ocean for sustaining a habitable climate</h2>
Without the ocean there would be no human species. The <a href="https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/why-care-about-ocean.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ocean is what makes the Earth habitable</a> for humans and other living beings in the first place.
First, the ocean is responsible for creating the majority of the oxygen that humans need to live. The ocean also stores over 50 times more carbon dioxide than the Earth&rsquo;s atmosphere. It&rsquo;s responsible for the air needed for humans to breathe and plant life to thrive.
The ocean is also the most significant mechanism our planet uses to regulate the climate which allows the Earth to continue to be habitable. The ocean plays a key role in circulating heat from the equator to the polar regions. This moderates the Earth&rsquo;s weather and climate patterns.&nbsp;
<h2>The ocean provides nourishment and medicine</h2>
One of the more obvious benefits the ocean has to human society is providing nourishment in the form of seafood.
However, ingredients for many other common foods are actually sourced from the sea as well. Many items such as peanut butter and soy milk contain ocean-based ingredients.&nbsp;
Additionally, much of the<a href="https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/why-care-about-ocean.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> medicines that help treat sickness, pain and disease</a> are derived from ingredients from the ocean. This includes medicines that treat cancer, Alzheimer&rsquo;s disease, arthritis and heart disease.&nbsp;
<h2>The importance of the ocean to the U.S. economy</h2>
The U.S. economy is highly dependent on the ocean for economic growth. American businesses that are dependent on the ocean employ <a href="https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/why-care-about-ocean.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">close to 3 million workers</a>.&nbsp;
These businesses produce <a href="https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/why-care-about-ocean.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">$282 billion worth of products and services</a> each year. Also,<a href="https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/why-care-about-ocean.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> 76 percent of U.S. trade</a> requires some type of ocean-based transportation.
<h2>How to help keep the ocean clean and sustainable</h2>
There are various ways you can help to save the ocean and keep it clean. First, you can start by doing what you can to conserve water. This reduces runoff wastewater which ends up flowing into the ocean.
Try to use nontoxic chemicals and make sure you properly dispose of your cleaning products, pesticides and herbicides. Overall, try to reduce waste and decrease how much you throw away.
Your consumer choices can also have a huge impact on ocean sustainability. Purchase sustainable seafood. When you are grocery shopping opt for reusable bags as opposed to plastic bags which end up in landfills and ultimately may reach the ocean.
Paying attention to your energy consumption is also important. Reduce vehicle pollution by choosing to drive a fuel efficient vehicle, use carpools or even ride a bike when possible. Also, try to stick with energy efficient light bulbs.&nbsp;
<h2>What to do for World Ocean Day</h2>
The U.N. is commemorating World Ocean Day this year by holding its second completely virtual celebration which will feature entrepreneurs, community leaders, experts from various industries and numerous celebrities.
These special guests will be talking about the biodiversity of the ocean and how the sea provides significant economic opportunity.&nbsp;
Last year&rsquo;s event, which was the first time this annual event was held completely virtually, had 350,000 viewers. Also, 60 million people were able to see the event on social media. You can <a href="https://www.unep.org/events/un-day/world-oceans-day-2021" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">join the event here</a>.
Aside from this virtual event being produced by the U.N. there are plenty of events around the globe that are planned for celebrating World Ocean Day. Here are a few of the organizations hosting these special events:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.seacoastsciencecenter.org/events/world-ocean-day-weeklong-virtual-celebration/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seacoast Science Center</a> &ndash; Join this weeklong celebration in New Hampshire which includes community beach cleanups, educational talks, a recycled art contest, a virtual 5K run, family trivia and more.&nbsp;</li>
<li><a href="https://www.myseatosky.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sea to Sky</a> &ndash; This Canada-based nonprofit organization is hosting the <a href="https://www.coastreporter.net/local-arts/art-beat-ocean-day-to-be-celebrated-with-art-competition-3775855" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Howe Sound Art Challenge</a> for the youth which focuses on the theme of ocean life.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.greensboroscience.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Greensboro Science Center</a> &ndash; The organization is hosting its Annual Recycled Art Contest which prompts participants to create art that promotes saving the marine environment and shows the importance of the ocean.&nbsp;</li>
<li><a href="https://www.cleanoceanaccess.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Clean Ocean Access</a> &ndash; This environmental organization is producing <a href="https://whatsupnewp.com/2021/05/be-part-of-newport-ri-world-oceans-day-with-clean-ocean-access/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a weekend-long celebration </a>in Newport, Rhode Island which includes a virtual art contest, raffles, giveaways and more.</li>
</ul>
Another way to celebrate World Ocean Day is to donate to a non-profit organization whose goal is to keep the ocean clean and the marine environment sustainable, like the <a href="https://foundationforclimaterestoration.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Foundation for Climate Restoration</a>.&nbsp;
If you want to explore other environmentally friendly nonprofits and fun facts, check out our article on <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/world-environment-day-facts-history-ways-to-celebrate-and-more/">World Environment Day</a> which takes place every year on June 5th.
<h2>Key Takeaways</h2>
<ul>
<li>A clean and healthy ocean is vital for sustaining life for humans as well as just about every other life form on Earth.</li>
<li>The U.N. is celebrating World Ocean Day on June 8 with a fully virtual event.</li>
<li>The ocean plays a key role in the U.S. economy.</li>
<li>There are many different celebrations all over the globe commemorating World Ocean Day.&nbsp;</li>
<li>You can make a difference by donating to nonprofits that help the ocean.</li>
</ul>

World Ocean Day addresses the need for a healthy ocean environment. Organizations around the world are celebrating with events based all over the globe.


World Ocean Day

Why should you support your favorite charity and what are the best charities to donate to? Tips on getting started selecting the organizations you want to support.


The Best Charities To Donate To

This article was fact-checked and verified by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinevarraveto985649161" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Katherine Varraveto</a>, CPA. However, this article does not constitute tax advice and was written for educational purposes. For actual tax advice please consult your own CPA.
<ul class="is-style-none">
<li><a href="#how much charity is tax deductible">How much charity is tax deductible?</a></li>
<li><a href="#what is considered a charitable donation">What is considered a charitable donation?</a></li>
<li><a href="#what is the maximum tax deduction">What is the maximum tax deduction?</a></li>
<li><a href="#what is the maximum charitable deduction in without a receipt">What is the maximum charitable deduction in 2020 without a receipt?</a></li>
<li><a href="#is the charitable deduction per person">Is the $300 charitable deduction per person?</a></li>
<li><a href="#how much do i need to give to charity in order to impact my tax return">How much do I need to give to charity in order to impact my tax return?</a></li>
<li><a href="#how much can i claim for charitable donations without getting audited">How much can I claim for charitable donations without getting audited?</a></li>
<li><a href="#things to remember about tax deductible donations">5 Things to remember about tax deductible donations</a></li>
<li><a href="#how can spiral help you with your charitable goals">How can Spiral help you with your charitable goals?</a></li>
<li><a href="#key takeaways">Key takeaways</a></li>
</ul>
Many of us want to use our resources to help non-profit organizations. Is there a limit on the total <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/how-to-get-tax-breaks-for-donations/">charitable donations each person can claim as a tax deduction</a>? How should I decide if and how much should I donate? How much charity is tax deductible?
Currently, there is not a limit on qualified donations made to public charities. In prior years, limits can vary from 30% to 60% of your adjusted gross income.
We don&rsquo;t know what policies the next few years will bring, but it is a good time to get the most out of your charitable giving and maximize your tax benefits.
Before we get started, what is a tax deduction?
<a href="https://www.bankrate.com/glossary/t/tax-deduction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">According to Bankrate,</a> &ldquo;A tax deduction reduces the amount of income that is subject to taxation by federal and state governments. All federal income taxpayers have the right to choose either the standard deduction or to itemize a range of deductions, thereby lowering their taxable income.&rdquo;&nbsp;
If an item is considered &ldquo;tax-deductible,&rdquo; it means that it can be taken as a tax deduction. Okay, now let&rsquo;s talk deduction limits.&nbsp;
<h2>How much charity is tax deductible?</h2>
Note: These are limits for 2020 and 2021 under COVID-era policies. These numbers could change in 2022. Please check with your tax advisor before making decisions on your plans for deductions.
<a href="https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/charitable-organizations/charitable-contribution-deductions#:~:text=You%20may%20deduct%20charitable%20contributions,limitations%20apply%20in%20some%20cases" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">According to the Internal Revenue Service</a> (IRS), &ldquo;In most cases, the amount of charitable cash contributions taxpayers can deduct on Schedule A as an itemized deduction is limited to a percentage (usually 60 percent) of the taxpayer&rsquo;s adjusted gross income (AGI).&nbsp;
Qualified cash contributions, created by the CARES Act of 2020, are not subject to this limitation.
Individuals may deduct qualified cash contributions of up to 100 percent of their adjusted gross income. Please note that currently qualified contributions are only authorized for 2020 and 2021. Contributions that exceed the limitations can be carried over to the next tax year.
To qualify for deduction, the contribution must be:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>a cash contribution;</li>
<li>made to a qualifying organization</li>
<li>made during the calendar year 2020 or 2021</li>
</ul>
In short, &ldquo;When you make a charitable contribution of cash to a qualifying public charity, in 2020 or 2021, under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, you can deduct up to 100% of your adjusted gross income,&rdquo; according to <a href="https://www.fidelitycharitable.org/guidance/charitable-tax-strategies/charitable-tax-deductions.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fidelity Charitable</a>.&nbsp;
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/s9ja8hU22wTrIzp-69LIGxcBJYhDzuOh8DNouPEzDsM-YPeexCXx_75ub7VWghm-2G7RKBS0N_iBF7xXpZWyUj5H6xCKLJrmjvmvCWbJfHnDaL5HWwvCwBzS3OqnCNp8wzN7mJHv" alt="How Much Charity Is Tax-Deductible? ">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image from <a href="https://images.wsj.net/im-320540?width=620&amp;size=1.5005861664712778" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Source: WSJ</a></figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
<h2>What is considered a charitable donation?</h2>
According to the IRS, a charitable donation is &ldquo;a donation or gift to, or for the use of, a qualified organization. It is voluntary and is made without getting, or expecting to get, anything of equal value.&rdquo;
Practically, this could be a monetary donation or even a physical item. An example of a physical item would be donating your used car to an organization like <a href="https://www.habitat.org/support/donate-your-car" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Habitat for Humanity</a>.
<h2>What is the maximum tax deduction?</h2>
Charitable giving isn&rsquo;t the only way you can get a tax deduction! Even with the 50% charitable donation limit, you cannot go above having 60% of your AGI itemized in deductions.
This means that any other deductions you have plus your charitable donations, can&rsquo;t exceed 60% of your reported income.&nbsp;
So, if you, in our metaphorical example, made $50,000 and donated $25,000 to your local public charity and had write-offs (such as mortgage interest, state and local tax, and healthcare expenses) totaling over $10,000, you&rsquo;d only be able to claim a total of $30,000 in itemized deductions. <a href="https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/charitable-organizations/charitable-contribution-deductions#:~:text=You%20may%20deduct%20charitable%20contributions,limitations%20apply%20in%20some%20cases" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">See this article from the IRS for more information</a>.
You may not even need to itemize your tax deductions because the IRS gives you the opportunity to claim a standard deduction.
<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-provides-tax-inflation-adjustments-for-tax-year-2020#:~:text=For%20single%20taxpayers%20and%20married,tax%20year%202020%2C%20up%20%24300." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">From the IRS:</a> &ldquo;The standard deduction for married filing jointly rises to $24,800 for tax year 2020, up $400 from the prior year. For single taxpayers and married individuals filing separately, the standard deduction rises to $12,400 in for 2020, up $200, and for heads of households, the standard deduction will be $18,650 for tax year 2020, up $300.&rdquo;&nbsp;
In comparison, an itemized deduction is a list of eligible deductions that you, as the taxpayer, can list out on your tax return. If you believe you have more than the standard deduction, it would make more sense to itemize.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/standarddeduction.asp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">According to Investopedia</a>, a standard deduction, &ldquo;is the portion of income not subject to tax that can be used to reduce your tax bill.
The IRS allows you to take the standard deduction if you do not itemize your deductions using Schedule A of Form 1040 to calculate taxable income.&rdquo;
This will change for 2021:&nbsp;
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PpUVrO3TW5-fZf40_t0KV_KEcUe78Nnez6dUM59c4RPG_zvrEFrWcgZeO9Qznas7pjGWaeQp5jl7tsBPVnsx-EEC3XEtqPL3-foiIHDUMMgrsXBTY6hzSJERNLxeZgZsqjJteAh3" alt="How Much Charity Is Tax-Deductible? "></figure>
<h2>What is the maximum charitable deduction in 2020 without a receipt?</h2>
<a href="https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/taxes/tax-deductible-donations-charity" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">According to NerdWallet</a>, &ldquo;For the 2020 tax year, there&rsquo;s a twist: you can deduct up to $300 of cash donations without having to itemize. This is called an &ldquo;above the line&rdquo; deduction.
In 2021, the deduction rises to $300 per person rather than per tax return, meaning a married couple filing jointly could deduct up to $600 of donations without having to itemize.&rdquo;
This means that you can, regardless of whether you itemize or take the standard deduction, also claim the $300 in cash donations.
<h2>Is the $300 charitable deduction per person?</h2>
Yes, $300 is per person, meaning, if married and filing jointly, you could claim up to $600 of cash donations, even if also taking the standard deduction, without having to itemize the giving.
<h2>How much do I need to give to charity in order to impact my tax return?</h2>
Of course, you can&rsquo;t put a true financial value on all of the <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/what-is-the-importance-of-charity/">reasons to make a charitable donation </a>but in order for your donations to impact your tax return, you&rsquo;d have to have more donations and other deductions than the standard deduction outlined above (so $12,550 for single filers and $25,100 for married, filing jointly taxpayers in 2021).&nbsp;
Going back to our prior example, if you are filing a single tax return, your total deductions (including charitable and all others), would need to total more than the $12,400 you can claim as a standard deduction.
If you have only donated $400 and are able to claim just $3,500 in mortgage interest and other deductions, for example, you would be better off taking the offered $12,400 in standard deduction <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/how-to-get-tax-breaks-for-donations/">instead of itemizing your charitable giving</a>.&nbsp;
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/qAb1n0r4GU4iIwul9qBNiouA8QojN2iQ4ot1_RVL3dNcNKhlKNiGOPEoVPIZbjKKjTc8KcHUqYbvJCvIWKyD47QsniBXQZ1krzTUcWYQcsx83mr7xkQTN9sQQihXR0rwM2weS45b" alt="How Much Charity Is Tax-Deductible? ">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image from <a href="https://www.1040.com/blog/2016/3/1/standard-deduction-or-itemized-deductions/">1040.com</a></figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
<h2>How much can I claim for charitable donations without getting audited?</h2>
There is no magic number here. The IRS can choose to audit you at any time, for any reason. However, <a href="https://budgeting.thenest.com/much-can-donate-charity-raising-red-flag-irs-33916.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">according to The Nest</a>, the IRS is more likely to flag charitable giving that goes above 3% of your AGI.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The IRS knows how much the average taxpayer in your income range donates, and if you want to avoid IRS red flags for charitable donations, it&rsquo;s a good idea to stay within that charitable donations limit range, or the IRS may want to take a closer look at your tax return.&nbsp;
Say your adjusted gross income is $100,000. The average donation for that income level is about $3,620, or around 3 percent.
So if you donate three times that much, make sure you keep any charitable donation receipts, because the IRS may want to check your return.
If you are within that 3-percent range, you most likely can go ahead and claim charitable deductions without a receipt. Still, keeping receipts always makes sense in case the IRS flags your return for another reason.
You are legally allowed to claim charitable deductions for up to 60 percent of your adjusted gross income, but again, if you go much above that 3 percent rate, the IRS will likely audit your return.&rdquo;
<h2>5 Things to remember about tax deductible donations</h2>
<ol class="is-style-checkbox">
<li>Calculate whether or not it will make sense to itemize your deductions.
<ol>
<li>&nbsp;If you were to itemize all of your deductions, would it be less than the standard deduction offered based on your filing status? If so, take the standard deduction. Less paperwork, too!</li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
<ol class="is-style-checkbox" start="2">
<li>If you will be itemizing, remember this helpful checklist on how to claim the deductions:&nbsp;
<ol>
<li>Make sure the non-profit organization is a 501(c)(3) public charity or private foundation.</li>
<li>Keep a record of the contribution (usually the tax receipt from the charity).</li>
<li>If it&rsquo;s a non-cash donation, in some instances you must obtain a qualified appraisal to substantiate the value of the deduction you&rsquo;re claiming. You may even need the receipts from the original purchase.</li>
<li>With your paperwork ready, itemize your deductions and file your tax return (<a href="https://www.fidelitycharitable.org/guidance/charitable-tax-strategies/charitable-tax-deductions.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fidelity</a>).</li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
<ol class="is-style-checkbox" start="3">
<li>If you don&rsquo;t have cash, you can donate items!&nbsp;
<ol>
<li>Instead of throwing away your valuables, see if a local organization will take them. Make sure you get a receipt from them so you can write it off.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
<ol class="is-style-checkbox" start="4">
<li>Use <a href="https://www.spiral.us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spiral&rsquo;s new ethical banking</a>&sup1; service to match up to $150 of your donations per year&sup3;.&nbsp;
<ol>
<li>Make your money go further in helping those in need.</li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
<ol class="is-style-checkbox" start="5">
<li>Charitable giving is not only about the deduction.&nbsp;
<ol>
<li>Even if you&rsquo;re just giving small amounts (Start with $1!), you will &ldquo;<a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-compass-pleasure/201108/is-your-brain-charitable-giving" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">feel wealthier, healthier, and happier</a>.&rdquo; According to <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/camilomaldonado/2018/07/10/you-should-budget-for-charitable-giving-even-if-not-rich/?sh=2aa8a47c7439" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forbes</a> article, &ldquo;individuals that spent $4 on someone else reported being more happy than those that spent up to $20 on themselves.&rdquo;</li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
And when it comes to charitable donations, there is also no magic number for how much you should give.
It comes down to your own savings and budget goals. Find charitable organizations whose mission you support. Here&rsquo;s a fun list of reputable, amazing <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/3-amazing-celebrity-founded-nonprofits-to-donate-to/">charities started by celebrities!</a>
<h2>How can Spiral help you with your charitable goals?&nbsp;</h2>
<a href="https://spiral.us">Spiral is the pioneer of the Impact-as-a-Service&trade;</a> platform that helps banks and financial institutions easily embed sustainability, social impact, ESG, and CSR into their businesses. Their mission is to empower 10,000+ U.S. financial institutions and millions of people to contribute to a better world.
<h2>Key takeaways</h2>
So, how much charity is tax deductible? Right now, you can donate 100% of your AGI to qualified, public charities. That might not always be the case! However, if you&rsquo;re like the majority of Americans, you likely will need to weigh whether or not you&rsquo;ll need to itemize your deductions or take the standard deduction.
Finally, remember <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/what-is-a-charity-a-guide-to-giving/">what is charity</a> and that giving is not just about your wallet. It&rsquo;s good for your community, your well-being, and the well-being of all of us.
<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/WR9gLJzemME_CJgsLeMv5nTf-YVLY2CtsNOlPs5ejxKTrBB0knObpBjXDV_OlIZOvPYUhJCJuxsaqALErg4S-RKjLUrrrHatN1dyIgEFJqn7o-Nn-dME9ACjVTXuo3R2u8sdhkof" alt="How Much Charity Is Tax-Deductible? ">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">(Image from <a href="https://www.coastalwealthmanagement24.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/The-Standard-Deduction-and-Itemized-Deductions-After-Tax-Reform-Coastal-Wealth-Management.gif"> Coastal Wealth Management</a>)</figcaption>
</figure>

Preparing your charitable giving plans? 5 things to remember about tax deductible donations.


How Much Charity Is Tax-Deductible?

Charitable giving has been a major topic of discussion during the pandemic. Donating your time and money to causes doesn’t just do good for others, it does good for you too. Why is it such an important part of your holistic financial plan?


What Is the Importance of Charity?

What&rsquo;s ahead:
<ul class="is-style-none">
<li><a href="#your local food bank or a feeding america food bank">Your local food bank or a Feeding America food bank</a></li>
<li><a href="#habitat for humanity">Habitat for Humanity</a></li>
<li><a href="#the frontline families fund">The Frontline Families Fund</a></li>
<li><a href="#the boys and girls club">The Boys and Girls Club</a></li>
<li><a href="#unicef">Unicef</a></li>
<li><a href="#wrapping up">Wrapping Up</a></li>
</ul>
On March 10, 2021, Congress passed a <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/11-things-to-know-about-the-stimulus-check-round-3/">1.9 trillion stimulus bill</a>, one of the most extensive relief packages in U.S. history! Among other supports, the plan provided $1,400 for qualifying individuals, including children.&nbsp;
With pandemic factors like <a href="https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.nr0.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unemployment</a> and hunger disrupting millions of lives, these stimulus checks provided families affected by COVID-19 some much-needed relief.&nbsp;
But what to do with your stimulus check if you don&rsquo;t need it? Or what if you&rsquo;re like my family who needs some support but would like to donate a portion to charitable causes? <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/what-is-a-charity-a-guide-to-giving/">What is the the right charity</a> to give to?
It&rsquo;s a question some Americans are asking themselves while holding onto extra cash that they could do without.
The good news &ndash; plenty of reliable Covid relief organizations, are out there. The bad news, it&rsquo;s challenging to narrow them down to a trustworthy few.&nbsp;
That&rsquo;s why we did some digging and came up with 5 GREAT organizations you can donate your money to help families hurting from COVID-19.&nbsp;
<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img class="wp-post-614 wp-image-774" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/spiral/images/w_714,h_530/v1642517432/wordpress-uploads/Screen-Shot-2021-04-25-at-1.10.33-PM/Screen-Shot-2021-04-25-at-1.10.33-PM.jpg?_i=AA" sizes="(max-width: 714px) 100vw, 714px" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/spiral/images/v1642517432/wordpress-uploads/Screen-Shot-2021-04-25-at-1.10.33-PM/Screen-Shot-2021-04-25-at-1.10.33-PM.jpg?_i=AA 676w, https://res.cloudinary.com/spiral/images/v1642517432/wordpress-uploads/Screen-Shot-2021-04-25-at-1.10.33-PM/Screen-Shot-2021-04-25-at-1.10.33-PM.jpg?_i=AA 300w" alt="What to do with Your Stimulus Check if You Don't Need It" width="714" height="530" loading="lazy" data-public-id="wordpress-uploads/Screen-Shot-2021-04-25-at-1.10.33-PM.jpg" data-attachment-id="774" data-permalink="https://blogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com/2021/04/26/what-to-do-with-your-stimulus-check-if-you-dont-need-it/screen-shot-2021-04-25-at-1-10-33-pm/" data-orig-file="https://i0.wp.com/blogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Screen-Shot-2021-04-25-at-1.10.33-PM.jpg?fit=676%2C502&amp;ssl=1" data-orig-size="676,502" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="Screen-Shot-2021-04-25-at-1.10.33-PM" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://i0.wp.com/blogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Screen-Shot-2021-04-25-at-1.10.33-PM.jpg?fit=300%2C223&amp;ssl=1" data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/blogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Screen-Shot-2021-04-25-at-1.10.33-PM.jpg?fit=676%2C502&amp;ssl=1" data-recalc-dims="1" data-format="jpg" data-transformations="" data-version="1642517432">
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo courtesy of the <a href="https://www.bgcmetrobaltimore.org/post/steeler-s-cb-trevor-williams-delivers-family-meals-to-westport-club" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Baltimore</a></figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
<h2>5 Great Organizations You Can Donate Your Money To Help Families Hurting From COVID-19</h2>
<h3>1. Your local food bank or a Feeding America food bank&nbsp;</h3>
When the pandemic first started, I was in awe of how our local community in Ocala, Florida, took action. My kids will never forget when<a href="https://iesmarion.org/"> Interfaith, a local food bank/charity</a>, held a drive-through food drive in March 2020.&nbsp;
This was our first Covid charitable action because we wanted to start local, and they were so quick to organize such an event.
It&rsquo;s a good thing food banks like Interfaith sprung into action all over the country.
Why?
For starters, it&rsquo;s projected that <a href="https://www.feedingamerica.org/research/coronavirus-hunger-research" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">43 million people may experience food insecurity</a> due to the pandemic., Sadly, this will affect an estimated 13 million children.
Furthermore, food banks across the country are seeing <a href="https://www.feedingamerica.org/hunger-blog/food-bank-response-covid-numbers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">55 percent more people</a> than before the pandemic started.&nbsp;
Not sure where your nearest foodbank is located? Check out <a href="https://www.feedingamerica.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Feeding America</a>. This national organization allows you to input your zip code and find a Feeding America food bank location &ndash; responsible for providing 4.3 billion meals a year.&nbsp;&nbsp;
The organization also researches and creates <a href="https://www.feedingamerica.org/research/coronavirus-hunger-research" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports on the latest hunger data</a> in America and is the nation&rsquo;s largest hunger-relief organization.
Donating your stimulus check to your local food pantry is just one way you could help families hurting from COVID-19. Donate through Spiral&rsquo;s banking app and Spiral will <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/are-matching-donations-real-how-to-maximize-your-charitable-giving/">match your donation by dollar-for-dollar</a>, up to $150 per year&sup3;.
<h3>2. Habitat for Humanity</h3>
With a tagline of &ldquo;Every hand makes a difference,&rdquo; Habitat for Humanity funds and builds houses for those in need and has helped more than <a href="https://www.habitat.org/newsroom/2019/habitat-humanity-reaches-29-million-served-it-rises-growing-challenges-housing#:~:text=Since%20its%20founding%20in%201976%2C%20Habitat%20for%20Humanity%20has%20helped,conditions%20in%20fiscal%20year%202019." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">29 million people gain access to affordable housing</a> since its founding in 1976.
Not only can you donate your stimulus check to Habitat for Humanity, but you can volunteer your time for them, too.&nbsp;
Over 1.4 million, that&rsquo;s right, MILLION people volunteered for the organization in 2019. And note that potential homeowners work right alongside volunteers and pay a reduced mortgage.
Unfortunately, the pandemic has only <a href="https://www.habitat.org/covid-19" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exacerbated the need for quality housing</a> for underprivileged families, so organizations like Habitat for Humanity will be giving back for years to come.
Especially since UN-HABITAT projects around <a href="https://unhabitat.org/topic/housing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">40 percent of the world&rsquo;s population</a> will need housing by 2030.&nbsp;
Jonathan Reckford, International CEO of Habitat for Humanity, explained in a <a href="https://www.habitat.org/newsroom/2020/habitat-ceo-some-shelter-place-different-kind-crisis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">March 2020 press release</a>, &ldquo;You can help us help these families, these communities, our neighbors build back. Stronger, in solidarity and with your support.&rdquo;
So, if you don&rsquo;t need your stimulus check, Habitat for Humanity is a great organization you can donate your money to. Want to double the impact of your donation to Habitat for Humanity? Donate through Spiral&rsquo;s banking app and Spiral will match your donation by dollar-for-dollar, up to $150 per year&sup3;<a href="https://www.spiral.us/">.</a>
<h3>3. The Frontline Families Fund&nbsp;</h3>
The <a href="https://frontlinefamiliesfund.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frontline Families Fund</a> provides financial and educational scholarship support to families of healthcare workers who lost their lives to COVID-19.&nbsp;
It also educates the public about how the pandemic has highly affected Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).&nbsp;
Epidemiologist, <a href="https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/about-us/cidrap-staff/michael-t-osterholm-phd-mph" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Michael Osterholm</a>, envisioned the charity and has since discussed the organization on CBS This Morning and more.
When this article was written, the organization was steadily inching towards raising 2 million dollars, and 2,900+ U.S. healthcare workers had lost their lives.&nbsp;
Partnered with the <a href="https://www.braveofheartfund.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brave of Heart Fund</a> and <a href="https://scholarshipamerica.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scholarship America</a>, the Frontlines for Families Fund is a great organization you can donate your money to help families hurting from COVID-19.
Want to double the impact of your donation to the Frontlines for Families Fund? Donate through Spiral&rsquo;s banking app and Spiral will match your donation by dollar-for-dollar, up to $150 per year&sup3;<a href="https://www.spiral.us/">.</a>
<h3>4. The Boys and Girls Club</h3>
Founded in 1860, <a href="https://www.bgca.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Boys and Girls Club</a> continues to provide programs and meals to underprivileged children.
The organization serves around <a href="https://www.bgca.org/about-us/faqs#one" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">4,300 clubs</a>, and as the site states, &ldquo;every day 11.3 million children leave school with no place to go.&rdquo;&nbsp;
The Boys and Girls Club offers a safe environment where kids can socialize with peers and participate in programming guided by trained youth development professionals.&nbsp;
According to <a href="https://www.bgca.org/about-us/club-impact#:~:text=Developing%20Globally%20Competitive%20Graduates&amp;text=97%25%20of%20Club%20teens%20expect,67%25%20of%20their%20peers%20nationally." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">BGCA youth outcome data</a>:
<ul>
<li>91% of BGC youth reported that as a leader, they make others feel essential.</li>
<li>97% of BGC teens are expected to graduate from high school&nbsp;</li>
<li>75% of regular attendees said they volunteered in their community one or more times each year.</li>
</ul>
The organization offers programs and education in &ndash;&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Health and wellness</li>
<li>Sports and recreation</li>
<li>Arts</li>
<li>Health and wellness\</li>
<li>Workforce readiness</li>
<li>Mentorship</li>
<li>And more</li>
</ul>
CEO <a href="https://www.bgca.org/about-us/leadership-team/jim-clark" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jim Clark</a> explained in a Boys and Girls Club video, &ldquo;Now more than ever, we need you.&rdquo;&nbsp;
He also explained the Boys and Girls Club is taking action during the pandemic by:
<ul>
<li>Providing kids with free meals</li>
<li>Extending hours</li>
<li>Providing virtual programming</li>
<li>Educating families on relevant topics such as <a href="https://www.bgca.org/news-stories/2019/November/Impact-of-Grief-on-Kids" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">talking to your child about Covid</a> and the <a href="https://www.bgca.org/news-stories/2020/March/How-to-talk-to-your-child-about-COVID-19" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">impact of grief on kids</a>.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
If you don&rsquo;t need your stimulus check, you can donate to the <a href="https://www.bgca.org/ways-to-give" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boys and Girls Club here</a>.
Want to double the impact of your donation to the Boys and Girls Club?
<h3>5. Unicef</h3>
According to its website, &ldquo;UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children&rsquo;s lives, to defend their rights, and to help them fulfill their potential, from early childhood through adolescence.&rdquo;&nbsp;
With only <a href="https://www.charitynavigator.org/index.cfm?bay=search.summary&amp;orgid=4617" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">3 percent of donations</a> going to administrative costs, Unicef is rated one of the <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/best-charities-to-donate-to/">best charities to donate to</a> and holds a 90.86/100 Charity Navigator score.&nbsp;
Focused on helping our world&rsquo;s children, Unicef is a great organization where you can donate your money to help families hurting from COVID-19.&nbsp;
Here&rsquo;s how this well-known charity responding to the pandemic:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>The <a href="https://www.unicef.org/mena/stories/struggling-survive" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cash for Needs Program</a> supports affected families in Damascus, Syria offers single-time cash transfers to the most war-torn neighborhoods.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>By ensuring that <a href="https://www.unicefusa.org/mission/covid-19/vaccine" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2 billion vaccines</a> are fairly distributed in 2021.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>By providing health care workers and essential families with <a href="https://www.market.unicefusa.org/inspired-gifts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">resources needed</a> to keep safe.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>So far, the organization has provided 73 million people with soap, water, and other critical hygiene supplies.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Supported 274 million children with remote learning.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Trained 3.3 million health care workers in preventing and controlling infections.</li>
</ul>
Here are a few ways your donation could help:
<ul>
<li>$210 provides 10 portable vaccine carriers&nbsp;</li>
<li>$20 provides 100 bars of soap.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
Donating your stimulus check or even a portion could make a HUGE impact.
Still, wondering what to do with your stimulus check? Check out <a href="https://www.unicef.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unicef (global)</a>&nbsp; or <a href="https://www.unicefusa.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UnicefUSA</a>.
Want to double the impact of your donation to UNICEF? Donate through Spiral&rsquo;s banking app and Spiral will match your donation by dollar-for-dollar, up to $150 per year&sup3;.
<h2>Wrapping Up</h2>
So, if you don&rsquo;t need your stimulus check, explore one or all of the 5 great charitable organizations above.&nbsp;
Every little bit counts, and these reliable charities will put your money in good hands to make an impact, especially to families affected by COVID-19.
We&rsquo;re all in this together, and giving to these pandemic causes is one small step towards changing our world for the better.
Now let&rsquo;s give!

What if you don&#8217;t need your stimulus check? Or what if you need some support but would like to donate a portion to charitable causes? Where should you donate your money right now?


What to do with Your Stimulus Check if You Don&#8217;t Need It?

Seven billion people. Trillions in corporate bailouts. Nine&nbsp;gigatons of carbon released into the atmosphere every year.&nbsp;
Life in the modern world is defined by numbers so astronomical that we struggle to comprehend them, much less solve the problems they reflect.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Everyday life doesn&rsquo;t provide human beings with the frame of reference that we need in order to grasp things at such a large scale (unless you have a teenage boy, it&rsquo;s probably been a while since you ordered a billion pizzas or popped around the corner for a gigaton of milk).&nbsp;
Life in this world of massive numbers can be demoralizing.&nbsp;
How can we protect the planet when air pollution is measured in units of a billion tons?&nbsp;
How can we sensibly regulate corporations that are able to call on trillions of dollars in government support while ordinary people barely get by?&nbsp;&nbsp;
What kind of impact on the world would donating $5 a month have?
Taking stock of these situations, it&rsquo;s easy to feel that working for change is pointless, that any effort we make will be swamped by all those billions and trillions.&nbsp; Let&rsquo;s face it: it&rsquo;s easy to give up.
But there&rsquo;s another way to think about this. Often the system that causes a problem also provides us with the tools to solve it.
We print all that money and pump out all that carbon because of the modern economy that we have built &ndash; an economic system that can actually do good rather than harm if we know how to harness it.&nbsp;
The economy connects people around the world, across barriers of language, culture, distance, and time.&nbsp;Technology turns those connections into opportunities &ndash; like the opportunity for one person to make a small donation that has a huge impact.
In Brazil, a thousand square feet of rainforest costs about $11.50.&nbsp; With a recurring $11 monthly donation to support the work of organizations like the Rainforest Trust, you could protect about twelve thousand square feet of rainforest in just one year.&nbsp;&nbsp;
In many parts of Africa, annual school tuition is around $20 &ndash; and yet many families struggle to afford it.&nbsp;
With a year of recurring $20 monthly donations to the Africa Hope Fund, you could fund twelve years of a child&rsquo;s education &ndash; completely changing his or her life.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="wp-block-coblocks-click-to-tweet">
Malaria nets cost about $5 each, which means that with a weekly $5 donation to the&nbsp; Against Malaria Fund, you could save the lives of 52 children in one year.&nbsp;In 30 years, you could save over 1,500 children! Sometimes it only takes one person to save a village.
<a class="wp-block-coblocks-click-to-tweet__twitter-btn" href="http://twitter.com/share?&amp;text=%3Cstrong%3EMalaria%20nets%20cost%20about%20%245%20each%2C%20which%20means%20that%20with%20a%20weekly%20%245%20donation%20to%20the%26nbsp%3B%20Against%20Malaria%20Fund%2C%20you%20could%20save%20the%20lives%20of%2052%20children%20in%20one%20year.%26nbsp%3BIn%2030%20years%2C%20you%20could%20save%20over%201%2C500%20children!%20Sometimes%20it%20only%20takes%20one%20person%20to%20save%20a%20village.%3C%2Fstrong%3E&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fblogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com%2F2021%2F04%2F26%2Fhow-donating-5-a-month-can-save-1500-children-over-your-lifetime%2F" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Tweet</a></blockquote>
So numbers can be powerful and uplifting, too.&nbsp;The key is to find a way to use the technology and resources of our globalized economy to amplify your impact.&nbsp;
Donating $5 a month &ndash; &nbsp;that is very manageable to you, can travel halfway around the world and save or dramatically improve another person&rsquo;s life. 
<blockquote class="wp-block-coblocks-click-to-tweet">
The next step forward in banking is ethical banking.&nbsp; It&rsquo;s a way for you to give back, to reach people who need help &ndash; and to put up some mind-blowing numbers of your own. 
<a class="wp-block-coblocks-click-to-tweet__twitter-btn" href="http://twitter.com/share?&amp;text=%3Cstrong%3EThe%20next%20step%20forward%20in%20banking%20is%20ethical%20banking.%26nbsp%3B%20It%E2%80%99s%20a%20way%20for%20you%20to%20give%20back%2C%20to%20reach%20people%20who%20need%20help%20%E2%80%93%20and%20to%20put%20up%20some%20mind-blowing%20numbers%20of%20your%20own.%3Cbr%3E%3C%2Fstrong%3E&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fblogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com%2F2021%2F04%2F26%2Fhow-donating-5-a-month-can-save-1500-children-over-your-lifetime%2F" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Tweet</a></blockquote>

The opportunity for one person to make a small donation can have a huge impact. Spiral enables customers to effortlessly support the causes they care about.


How Donating $5 A Month Can Save 1500 Children Over Your Lifetime

What&rsquo;s ahead: 
<a href="#the bill and melinda gates foundation">The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation</a> <a href="#the leonardo dicaprio foundation">The Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation</a> <a href="#lady gagas born this way foundation">Lady Gaga&rsquo;s Born This Way Foundation</a> <a href="#what is the impact of your dollar on celebrityfunded nonprofit organizations">What is the impact of your dollar on celebrity-funded nonprofit organizations?</a> <a href="#the bottom line">The Bottom Line</a>
<h2>Wondering which nonprofit you should donate to based on causes you care about?&nbsp;</h2>
You&rsquo;re not alone! According to <a href="https://givingusa.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Giving USA</a>, the average American already contributes 2.1% of their income to charities. In 2019, Americans gave $449.64 billion to charitable causes.
<h2>So, how do you find the best nonprofits to donate to based on causes you care about?</h2>
Recent studies found that around <a href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171214005418/en/Survey-Consumers-Swayed-Social-Influencers-Purchase-Product" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">one-third of consumers</a> throughout Europe and the United States reported purchasing a product or service because of a social media post by an influencer.&nbsp;
So, why not turn to celebrity nonprofits?
As a movie buff with a charitable heart, I admit celebrity nonprofit organizations are my go-to.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="wp-block-coblocks-click-to-tweet">
But with <a href="https://nccs.urban.org/project/nonprofit-sector-brief" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1.5 million registered nonprofits</a> in the U.S, which one do we choose to give to? Where will we get the most bang for our buck when it comes down to donations?&rdquo;
<a class="wp-block-coblocks-click-to-tweet__twitter-btn" href="http://twitter.com/share?&amp;text=%3Cstrong%3EBut%20with%20%3Ca%20href%3D%22https%3A%2F%2Fnccs.urban.org%2Fproject%2Fnonprofit-sector-brief%22%20target%3D%22_blank%22%20rel%3D%22noreferrer%20noopener%22%3E1.5%20million%20registered%20nonprofits%3C%2Fa%3E%20in%20the%20U.S%2C%20which%20one%20do%20we%20choose%20to%20give%20to%3F%20Where%20will%20we%20get%20the%20most%20bang%20for%20our%20buck%20when%20it%20comes%20down%20to%20donations%3F%22%3C%2Fstrong%3E&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fblogspiralus.wpcomstaging.com%2F2021%2F04%2F26%2F3-amazing-celebrity-founded-nonprofits-to-donate-to%2F" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Tweet</a></blockquote>
That&rsquo;s why we rolled up our sleeves and gathered all the information for you.
<h2>Here are a few reasons why I prefer donating to celebrity-endorsed charity campaigns:</h2>
<ol>
<li>Celebrities are in the limelight. Any bad tactics result in a PR nightmare. Because of this, I&rsquo;m more likely to hear about any negative publicity surrounding the charity.</li>
<li>Celebrities come with a face and a story. Many started their foundations because they&rsquo;re passionate about a particular cause.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Celebrities have the connections and money to propel their message forward. In fact, a recent study done by <a href="https://www.rutgers.edu/news/celebrity-endorsements-lead-increases-charitable-donations-public" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rutgers University</a> suggests philanthropic celebrities help spread public awareness of charitable organizations.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Celebrity giving also influences credibility related to nonprofit organizations. As the Rutgers study also states: &ldquo;We find that celebrities also offer a credibility signal to donors, which is especially important for nonprofit organizations.&rdquo;</li>
<li>Plus, according to the <a href="https://hbr.org/2011/01/when-youve-made-enough-to-make-a-difference" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Harvard Business Review</a>, &ldquo;Savvy donors recognize when and how a nonprofit needs to grow and can assist in that process.&rdquo; (I&rsquo;d categorize celebrities as savvy donors any day.)</li>
</ol>
So, if you&rsquo;re seeking the <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/best-charities-to-donate-to/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">best nonprofit to donate to</a> based on a cause you&rsquo;re passionate about, these 5 celebrity-founded nonprofits will get you started.&nbsp;
And stick around at the end, where we&rsquo;ll answer the question: What is the impact of your dollar on celebrity nonprofit organizations? (+ more facts and resources to guide your giving)
<h2>What&rsquo;s ahead:</h2>
<ul>
<li>The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation</li>
<li>The Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation</li>
<li>Lady Gaga&rsquo;s Born This Way Foundation</li>
<li>What is the impact of your dollar on celebrity nonprofit organizations?&nbsp;</li>
<li>The Bottom Line</li>
</ul>
<h2>3 great celebrity nonprofits to donate to</h2>
<h3>1. <a href="https://www.gatesfoundation.org/about/leadership?division=Executive%20Leadership" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation</a></h3>
&ldquo;The world faces a clear choice. If we invest relatively modest amounts, many more poor farmers will be able to feed their families. If we don&rsquo;t, one in seven people will continue living needlessly on the edge of starvation.&rdquo; <a href="https://borgenproject.org/6-gates-foundation-end-poverty-quotes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bill Gates</a>&nbsp;
<h4>Celebrity Nonprofit Snapshot</h4>
Focus: Poverty, hunger, health, equality, and more
Funding: &ldquo;According to <a href="https://www.gatesfoundation.org/about/our-story" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the foundation&rsquo;s website</a>, &ldquo;Our foundation has spent $53.8 billion since 2000.&rdquo; Read the <a href="https://www.gatesfoundation.org/about/financials/annual-reports" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">annual report here</a>.
Founded: 2000
Notable impact:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Donated <a href="https://www.gatesfoundation.org/ideas/articles/coronavirus-funding-additional-250-million-suzman" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">$250 million</a> to fight the pandemic.</li>
<li>Funded work in 135 countries, including 48 states.</li>
<li>See the full <a href="https://www.gatesfoundation.org/about/foundation-fact-sheet" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fact sheet here</a>.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
As its <a href="https://www.gatesfoundation.org/about/leadership?division=Executive%20Leadership" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">website</a> boldly states, &ldquo;We are a nonprofit fighting poverty, disease, and inequity around the world.&rdquo;
Active for over 20 years, this nonprofit tackles inequities in the world by collaborating with the government, businesses, and other nonprofits.&nbsp;
The couple started the foundation after reading an article about how millions of children in poorer countries die of common diseases.&nbsp;
New parents at the time, the Gates wanted to help change this, and since 2000, the foundation has spent a <a href="https://www.gatesfoundation.org/about/our-story" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">whopping $53.8 billion</a>!&nbsp;
The organization&rsquo;s website also reports the Gates&rsquo; have even transferred 20 billion of Microsoft stock to their foundation fund!
Learn how to donate the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, click <a href="https://www.gatesfoundation.org/about/contact" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">donate here</a>. If&nbsp; you want to learn how to get up to $150 in donation matching from Spiral, click <a href="https://www.spiral.us/">here</a>.
<h3>2. <a href="https://www.leonardodicaprio.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation</a></h3>
&ldquo;Clean air, water, and a livable climate are inalienable human rights. And solving this crisis is not a question of politics; it is a question of our own survival.&rdquo; Leonardo DiCaprio
<h4>Celebrity Nonprofit Snapshot</h4>
Focus: Climate resistance, restoring wildlife, indigenous rights
Total revenue: <a href="https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/search?utf8=%E2%9C%93&amp;q=+Leonardo+DiCaprio+Foundation&amp;state%5Bid%5D=&amp;ntee%5Bid%5D=&amp;c_code%5Bid%5D=" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">$6,300,967</a> (2019)
Founded: 1998
Notable impact:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Completed over 200 projects.</li>
<li>Supported 132 different organizations.</li>
<li>Contributed over 100 million in grants to projects worldwide.</li>
<li>Corroborated with the Sheth Sangreal Foundation covers operational costs, so 100 percent of additional funding goes to the Alliance&rsquo;s programs.</li>
<li>Download <a href="https://www.leonardodicaprio.org/reports/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">foundation reports here</a>.</li>
</ul>
With a tagline of &ldquo;Dedicated to the protection and well-being of all Earth&rsquo;s Inhabitants, the Leonardo Dicaprio Foundation, founded in 1998, supports protecting wildlife, restoring ecosystems, and building climate resilience.
Now part of the Earth Alliance, which addresses climate change, the organization&rsquo;s grant program encompasses 6 total areas:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Marine life and oceans,&nbsp;</li>
<li>Wildlife and landscapes</li>
<li>Climate change</li>
<li>Media, science, and technology,&nbsp;</li>
<li>Environment Now California Program</li>
<li>Indigenous rights</li>
</ul>
As of now, it has funded 20 projects, supported 132 organizations, and awarded 100 million in grants!
Click on DiCaprio&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.leonardodicaprio.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">celebrity-founded nonprofit site</a> to donate. If you want to learn how to get up to $150 in donation matching from Spiral, click <a href="https://www.spiral.us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.&nbsp;
<h3>3. <a href="https://bornthisway.foundation/ourimpact/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lady Gaga&rsquo;s Born This Way Foundation</a></h3>
&ldquo;We don&rsquo;t have to be victims. If we share our stories and stick together, we&rsquo;re stronger.&rdquo; <a href="https://www.goalcast.com/2019/03/26/lady-gaga-quotes/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lady Gaga</a>
<h4>Celebrity Nonprofit Snapshot</h4>
Focus: Youth empowerment, Mental health, LGBTQ support, and resources.
Revenue: $1,118,229 (<a href="https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/452752227" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2018</a>)
Founded: 2012
Notable impact:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>The foundation&rsquo;s Kindness Community research surveyed over 3,000 youth on&nbsp;</li>
<li>Hit 30 cities and reached 40k people on the Channel Kindness Tour, which featured community gatherings and youth-led events.</li>
<li>In conjunction with the National Council for Behavioral Health, influenced training for over 9k teens to help struggling teens.</li>
</ul>
You probably know Gaga from her unique wardrobe (<a href="https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/956399/lady-gaga-explains-her-meat-dress-its-no-disrespect" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">meat dresses</a>, anyone?) and belting out hit songs like &ldquo;Bad Romance&rdquo;, but did you know she runs the highly recognized Born This Way Foundation?
Founded in 2012 by Gaga and her mom, Cynthia Germanotta, the <a href="https://bornthisway.foundation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Born this Way Foundation</a> focuses on providing mental health resources and offering services that empower today&rsquo;s youth.&nbsp;
An organization based on the tenets of moving toward bravery, acceptance, love, and kindness, Gaga&rsquo;s website clearly states that &ldquo;One of the bravest things you can do is ask for support.&rdquo;
In addition to providing self-care tips, engaging campaigns, and nationally-recognized youth programs, the foundation provides valuable resources to the following:
<ul>
<li>National Suicide Prevention Lifeline/1 800-273-8255</li>
<li>TrevorLifeline/Call: 866-488-7386 / Text: &ldquo;START&rdquo; to 678678</li>
<li>Crisis Text Line/US: Text HOME to 741741 / Canada: Text 686868</li>
</ul>
The foundation is also known for its LGBTQIA, PTSD, domestic abuse resources, and more. Since its 2012 launch, the Born This Way Foundation organization has also trained over 250 youth reporters to cover &ldquo;heroic acts of kindness.&rdquo;&nbsp;
Among other programs, the Born This Way Foundation works with <a href="https://bornthisway.foundation/get-to-know-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the BTWF in Las Vegas organization</a> that promotes well-being for youth in the area by providing research and donating items (5,000 and counting) to local youth nonprofits.
Find out more about the Born This Way Foundation <a href="https://bornthisway.foundation/to-donate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>. If you want to learn how to get up to $150 in donation matching from Spiral, click <a href="https://www.spiral.us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.&nbsp;
<h2>What is the impact of your dollar on celebrity-funded nonprofit organizations?&nbsp;</h2>
When considering giving to a celebrity-founded nonprofit, keep these 5 pointers in mind.
<ol>
<li>Check its website and partners to see where your cash will go.</li>
</ol>
<ol start="2">
<li>Conduct a charity search. Online charity searches like <a href="https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/search" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ProPublica</a> quickly pull up many celebrity-funded nonprofits and provide you with revenue and more.</li>
</ol>
<ol start="3">
<li>According to the <a href="https://ssir.org/articles/entry/how_nonprofits_get_really_big" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stanford Social Innovation Review</a>, many nonprofits diversify their funds, and looking at our list of celebrity-endorsed charity campaigns, this proves true. So, make sure you&rsquo;re passionate about all the collaborating organizations and causes within your celebrity-funded nonprofit since your cash could go towards any one of them.</li>
</ol>
<ol start="4">
<li>Lastly, pay attention to the nonprofit&rsquo;s numbers. Through research and using unbiased navigation tools like <a href="https://www.charitynavigator.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charity Navigator</a>, you&rsquo;ll gain a better insight into the impact of your dollar.</li>
</ol>
<h2>The Bottom Line</h2>
Celebrity-founded nonprofits are great options for charitable givers. They provide a face and passion for a cause that may resonate with your own values.&nbsp;
Furthermore, celebrity-endorsed charity campaigns provide a public platform that increases visibility and donors.&nbsp;
As Jan Friedlander Svendsen, chief marketing officer for Charity Network, told <a href="https://charityvillage.com/the_oprah_effect_the_value_of_celebrity_charity_partnerships/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charity Village</a>, &ldquo;Everyone has different reasons to be part of something. Most celebrities realize they have a voice; they can make an impact and want to do so for social good.&rdquo;
So, what are you waiting for? Start giving to one (or all) of these celebrity charitable organizations&nbsp; today.

If you&#8217;re seeking the best nonprofit to donate to based on a cause you&#8217;re passionate about, these 5 celebrity-founded nonprofits will get you started.


3 Amazing Celebrity-Founded Nonprofits To Donate To

What&rsquo;s ahead:
<ol class="is-style-none">
<li><a href="#shop for everyday items from brands that donate to ethical causes">Shop for everyday items from brands that donate to ethical causes</a></li>
<li><a href="#set up automatic donations with your favorite nonprofit">Set up automatic donations with your favorite non-profit</a></li>
<li><a href="#talk to your employer about a donationmatching program">Talk to your employer about a donation-matching program</a></li>
<li><a href="#find a new banking app or credit card that makes donating easy">Find a new banking app or credit card that makes donating easy </a></li>
</ol>
As a society, we are more connected than ever. Each of us has the opportunity to have a voice and a platform, and people are using their platforms to bring attention to the causes and issues that are closest to their hearts.&nbsp;
But beyond our words, what can we do to impact more significant change in the world around us? After you get home from the march or put the camera down, what more can you do to continue to advocate for the causes you most believe in while you&rsquo;re balancing the necessities of daily life?&nbsp;
Believe it or not, where and how you spend your money can directly impact &ldquo;tipping the scales&rdquo; toward the causes you care about.&nbsp;
No matter what causes strike nearest and dearest to you, here are some simple ways you can make your money fight for what you believe in:&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>1. Shop for everyday items from brands that donate to ethical causes</h2>
From cleaning up our oceans to fighting for social equity, it&rsquo;s not just activists in the streets working towards building a better world. From independent sellers to globally-recognized labels, brands of all sizes are making commitments to use a portion of their profits to further causes that are important to them.&nbsp;
<a href="https://delilahhome.com/pages/about-us" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Delilah Home Goods</a> not only produces home goods made from sustainable materials, they donate 10% of their proceeds to local charities supporting children, families, even animals.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.oceansintegrity.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RIO</a>, a company that produces sustainable household paper products and plastic alternatives, also donates a portion of the proceeds to clean up trash-laden beaches in Indonesia.&nbsp;
Whatever your passion may be, look for brands that automatically donate a portion of their profits to non-profit organizations that are active in the areas you care about. With a simple, everyday purchase, you automatically put money in the pockets of organizations working hard to do good.&nbsp;
<h2>2. Set up automatic donations with your favorite non-profit</h2>
With the nonstop rhythm of everyday life, it can be difficult to budget for and prioritize giving. Thankfully, with the rise in online donation platforms, many non-profits offer an option to give a set amount every month automatically.&nbsp;
Even a small amount adds up over time, and by &ldquo;setting it and forgetting it,&rdquo; you can donate to your favorite causes without breaking up the rhythm of your everyday life.&nbsp;
If you&rsquo;re looking for an even easier way to set up automatic donations, new ethical banking&sup1; service Spiral allows you to donate to your favorite charities in the same place you manage the rest of your spending. Spiral will even match your donations to eligible charities up to $150 per year&sup3;. And all Spiral bank accounts are issued by nbkc bank, Member FDIC and insurance of accounts of up to $5,000,000 is available.⁷
<h2>3. Talk to your employer about a donation-matching program</h2>
Many workplaces already offer donation-matching programs where your employer will match whatever donation amount you give to your favorite non-profits up to a certain amount. This means you make double the impact with the same amount you already give.&nbsp;
For example, <a href="https://doublethedonation.com/forms/google-guidelines.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Google</a> offers its employees donation matching from a minimum of $50 all the way up to $6000 per year. This means employees who donate $6000 a year to causes they believe in make a $12,000 impact overall. That&rsquo;s not small change.&nbsp;
If your employer doesn&rsquo;t have a donation matching program, suggest one! There are many benefits that employers can access by increasing their charitable giving, and by leading the way in getting one off the ground, you can suggest causes that are most important to you be included in their approved non-profit list.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<h2>4. Find a new banking app or credit card that makes donating easy</h2>
We all love our rewards points, but many people don&rsquo;t realize that in addition to flights, many credit card companies allow you to donate your rewards points directly to approved charitable organizations. This means that a percentage of every purchase can be going directly to the causes you believe in.&nbsp;
There are some limitations to these programs, as most major credit card companies only let you donate to a handful of approved organizations. However, some banking apps and <a href="https://www.spiral.us/blog/debit-cards-the-easy-way-to-stay-debt-free/">debit cards</a> are taking things further.
<a href="https://www.spiral.us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spiral</a>, for example, is the pioneer of the Impact-as-a-Service&trade; platform that helps banks and financial institutions easily embed sustainability, social impact, ESG, and CSR into their businesses. Their mission is to empower 10,000+ U.S. financial institutions and millions of people to contribute to a better world.
As Booker T. Washington once said, &ldquo;those who are happiest are those who do the most for others.&rdquo; We all want to do our part to positively impact the world around us, and we can do so even in our everyday spending. You can live a better life while building a better world with each conscious dollar you spend.&nbsp;We are here to help you fight for what you believe in.

No matter what causes strike nearest and dearest to you, here are some simple ways you can make your money fight for what you believe in. 


4 Surprisingly Easy Ways To Make Your Money Fight For What You Believe In

I wrote this piece because Spiral encouraged me to share my deeply personal story with you in the hopes of inspiring you to care about causes that matter, like cancer research does to me. Spiral is changing the game of banking and helping a lot of people along the way.&nbsp;
Here&rsquo;s my story.
The C Word&hellip;I&rsquo;m talking about Cancer. Nobody wants to think about cancer. And everyone prays they never get it. And if you&rsquo;re about to stop reading because I&rsquo;ve mentioned it twice already, let me just say this. The story I&rsquo;m about to tell is really about hope, love and the power of the human spirit&hellip;as well as death, a fourteen hour long surgery and the super hero everyone knows and loves, Iron Man.
Up until two years ago, when my father was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, every time I heard the word mentioned on the radio? I turned the volume down. There&rsquo;s a lot to worry about in life without any real pressing issue. Just navigating one&rsquo;s inner struggles can be enough to confront on a day-to-day basis.&nbsp;
Truth is, I don&rsquo;t know when I made the decision to avoid thinking, learning, or even casually hearing about cancer, but that&rsquo;s just the way I had been living.&nbsp;
<h2>That is, until the day my father woke up one morning with a pain in his stomach.</h2>
He assumed it was food poisoning. A mildly irritating nauseous feeling that wouldn&rsquo;t go away. Now excuse this next statement, but there&rsquo;s no way around it. It was the catalyst for what turned out to be the most dramatic and life-altering day my father, or myself, have ever experienced. (At this point, I wasn&rsquo;t a father yet. More on that in a minute.) The disclaimer I just gave is in reference to my father&rsquo;s bowel movements. Folks, he found blood in his stool. And it doesn&rsquo;t matter how scared you are of hospitals or doctors, if you find blood in your stool? You&rsquo;re going to make a phone call and head to the emergency room. And that&rsquo;s exactly what my sixty four year old, energetic, hard working, mostly healthy Cuban immigrant father did. Little did he know, it would be weeks before he returned home.
For doctors to arrive at a cancer diagnosis, they have to perform a long series of really complicated tests. I&rsquo;ll spare you the details, but what I can say is nothing happened fast, and everything we experienced, every step of the way, was filled with fear, drama and tons of uncertainty. Before I speed you through the next ten months of chemotherapy, surgery and my father&rsquo;s fortunate cancer survival story, it&rsquo;s important I mention a couple things for anyone not in the know.&nbsp;
First, what is cancer? If you had asked me then, I would have said something like &lsquo;Um, a disease of like, incurable tumors that spread through your body so you have to get zapped by chemo with like, a laser? And then you lose your hair, get really weak and eventually die?&rsquo; And, in some respects, I guess I would have been partially correct. My family and I received a crash course in cancer and cancer treatment, all in the same day that we found out about the tumor on my dad&rsquo;s pancreas. And we learned there was definitely a lot more to it. Starting with what&rsquo;s actually happening to your body.
As one doctor casually explained, &lsquo;Cancer is a terrorist. It invades your town, hurts its citizens and doesn&rsquo;t stop until it&rsquo;s the last man standing. The difficult part is it&rsquo;s a terrorist that thinks it&rsquo;s a superhero. It&rsquo;s your body&rsquo;s normal way of protecting and healing itself, but it&rsquo;s aimed at places where there is nothing to heal, and nothing that needs protection.&rsquo; That&rsquo;s why it&rsquo;s so difficult to confront, reverse and beat. It&rsquo;s your system doing what it&rsquo;s supposed to do. Just in a time, place and manner, that is completely unnecessary.&nbsp;
The second thing we learned is that every form of cancer is different. It isn&rsquo;t just one blanketed disease. Unfortunately, my father had one of the deadliest and fast spreading forms of the disease. More often than not, people find pancreatic cancer when it&rsquo;s too late. It also has a high degree of recurrence. More often than not, if you&rsquo;re lucky enough to catch it early and even luckier that the tumor can be removed, within a two year span, you&rsquo;ll find that it has grown back. And at that point, there is little doctors and medicine can do for you. Basically, my dad got the &lsquo;Breaking Bad&rsquo; conversation. It&rsquo;s cancer. It&rsquo;s bad. You may only have months to live.&nbsp;
The doctor that delivered us the news was young, brilliant and perhaps as compassionate as Mother Theresa herself. He spoke bluntly, calmly and simply when he told my father his ailment. He immediately followed up by saying that he had two options in response. One, treat it with an intense regimen of chemotherapy (which, turns out, has nothing to do with lasers, and everything to do with sitting in a lazy boy recliner in a tiny depressed room getting an IV filled with chemo drugs for four to five hours once, sometimes twice a week). Or two, sell your belongings, move to Hawaii and live out the rest of your days drinking rum with your kids and playing with starfish and sand crabs. And he followed all of that up with one of the most incredible things I will ever hear another human being say to another.&nbsp;
<h2>He said, &lsquo;Everyone dies. I will die. You will die. Your son here will die. How we meet death is up to us and no one else. There is no wrong answer here. The decision is entirely yours.&rsquo;&nbsp;</h2>
Now, there&rsquo;s a real helplessness, in every true sense of the word, when a person is diagnosed with cancer. And it extends to a person&rsquo;s family and friends, as they are forced to watch the person they love have to make a decision of that depth, that soul-searching magnitude. To this day, I don&rsquo;t know if my dad was just too overwhelmed not to take in the weight of what was happening to him, or if he&rsquo;s just as strong as I&rsquo;ve come to realize. But it took him all of thirty seconds to tell his doctor, &lsquo;I&rsquo;ll fight&rsquo;. From that moment on, literally because his life depended on it, he fought, and we joined him. And very briefly, here&rsquo;s what that process looked like.
Three and a half months of chemotherapy. Again, sitting in a row of lazy-boy recliners, hooked up to an IV, talking to a loved one if you&rsquo;re lucky, or endlessly staring at a wall if you&rsquo;re not. Then there is a surgery to remove the tumor, and it&rsquo;s the second most complicated surgery performed in the world next to a liver transplant. And then a month later, three and a half more months of the same, intensive, sometimes incredibly challenging chemotherapy sessions before you get a chance to step away from the hospitals and take a much deserved break. After that you&rsquo;re monitored with blood tests and CAT scans every three to six months for the next six years. It&rsquo;s been two years since my father said he&rsquo;d fight. And in that time, he&rsquo;s become a grandfather because my wife and I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. We visited the Roman Colosseum and drank Guinness along the west coast of Ireland. We celebrated my father&rsquo;s mother&rsquo;s ninetieth birthday. And he has gone back to working full time, almost as if the whole event never actually happened. THE. END&hellip;just kidding.&nbsp;
Here&rsquo;s a small sample of the most challenging facets of what we experienced, as well as the most rewarding gifts the journey has given us.&nbsp;
My father kept his hair! But he was so weak he passed out in the bathroom and hit his head and I was forced to take him to the ER. Fighting cancer is extraordinarily challenging. It requires so much money, medicine, time, heart, knowledge and expertise. But there is a gigantic, amazing, unrecognized world of people who have dedicated every waking moment in life toward learning, treating and ultimately curing cancer. The people showing up to work every day to help people like my father and his family, are nothing short of astounding and their praises should be screamed from every rooftop as often as humanly possible. Every person we met along the way:&nbsp;
<h2>Every surgeon, oncologist, ER doctor, nurse, orderly, secretary, insurance representative, and even the late night hospital security guards, displayed a level of empathy, compassion and unwavering caring that I really believed only existed in movies, books and television.&nbsp;</h2>
It&rsquo;s not necessarily important for the purposes of this story, but it is worth mentioning a little bit about our experience with a Health Insurance Company during a trying time such as this. Before the big C word came into my life, I didn&rsquo;t know the difference between an HMO and a PPO insurance policy. In fact, I only ever paid attention to two things when it came to health insurance. How much it cost me every month, and how much it cost on the rare occasion that I visited a doctor. My father has an HMO. Which, for those of you like me, means it&rsquo;s essentially a cheaper policy, but it pays a higher percentage of your hospital bills. However, it limits you in terms of what doctors and what type of care you are allowed to receive. The challenge? My father didn&rsquo;t get to pick which doctors would treat and operate on him. The reward? They were astounding doctors. The hospital he was in was far from ideal. It looked destitute and lacking in so many ways it&rsquo;s almost too tough to touch on. But the people inside it, nearly all of them, were nothing short of kind-hearted, expert, honest to God, miracle workers.&nbsp;
The biggest challenge we faced in regards to his insurance company and the HMO, and this information came straight from the mouths of our doctors, repeatedly, is this:&nbsp;
Insurance companies know that a diagnosis like my father&rsquo;s is deadly and that time is of the essence. And they know that the longer they wait, the higher likelihood that someone&rsquo;s disease becomes incurable, thereby saving them lots of money on treatment.&nbsp;
So they purposely drag their feet in approving the doctor&rsquo;s orders for chemo, scans, IV fluids or second opinions. It&rsquo;s a sad and infuriating reality, but it&rsquo;s totally true. The flip side of this, is that the doctors are very aware of the horrible bureaucracy and they help you navigate it as if they were the ones fighting for their lives.
When I said the journey was uncertain, I maybe should have said that medicine generally is uncertain. The week before the surgery, the surgeon explained to us that they&rsquo;re not actually sure if they can remove the tumor, or if the cancer has spread, until they open my dad up. All the scans, blood tests and everything else they do to diagnose a person, are actually only educated guesses. It&rsquo;s a sobering realization to see the limits of even the best technology medicine has to offer. They are capable enough to give someone a new heart, kidney or liver, but the scan they took the day my father walked into the ER with a stomach ache, was only a small blur of a picture indicating the possible existence of a tumor that might be attached to his pancreas.&nbsp;
For anyone who might say, is it possible it wasn&rsquo;t cancer, and there is no tumor? Yes. But also, no. The real uncertainty lies in the severity of the tumor and how quickly it may be growing. They perform a biopsy to confirm the suspicion.&nbsp;
Now some of you might be wondering, why did this writer mention Iron Man in the beginning of this story without any hint of Tony Stark anywhere yet? Well, here&rsquo;s where the charismatic, arrogant, show off Avenger becomes a part of my father&rsquo;s journey. My dad was born in Cuba in the 1950&rsquo;s. His childhood lacked just about everything a person needs, including food. One of the few things he cherished in life was the occasional movie that a kid in Havana could see once in a blue moon. Ever since, he&rsquo;s been a huge movie fan. And his favorite character in any movie, from any time, is Iron Man.&nbsp;
<h2>And so the day of his surgery, I gave him an Iron Man costume to wear and he literally wore the mask as they wheeled him into the surgical room.&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
It was hysterical at the time, and it diffused a lot of the anxiety that everyone was feeling.&nbsp;
In case this is all a bit too heavy for you. I&rsquo;ll remind you that I said challenges and rewards. So if it wasn&rsquo;t obvious now, the greatest challenge you have with cancer, is, well&hellip;Death. And you might think there isn&rsquo;t a whole lot of upside to that, now would you? But guess what? I&rsquo;m here to say, there most definitely is. And I say this, without the slightest hint of any sugar on top. When you face death in this wild, shot in the dark, guessing as best you can as to what to do kind of way, the answers you&rsquo;re looking for can&rsquo;t always come from the doctors, scans and text books. These questions often become spiritual ones. And so my father, his brother, myself, my brothers, my wife, our friends and anyone we hold dear that became part of this journey with us, found that we were rewarded with something entirely different than what we had hoped.&nbsp;
Which, of course, was for him to beat cancer and live a full and healthy life for as long as possible. But what we learned from all the uncertainty, all the twists and turns that a cancer diagnosis brings to anyone&rsquo;s life, is this: that you have to stay present, hopeful and loving in life. You have to take your life as it comes. Not as you think it should be. You have to let go of the anger, resentment, fear and sorrow as often and as consistently as you can. You have to stay attuned to the people you love and connected to the time we&rsquo;re all so lucky to have in this life. Because this experience taught me exactly what that doctor said to be true.&nbsp;
<h2>We&rsquo;re all going to die. And some of us will get cancer. But if you so choose, not even the C word can stop you from living compassionately, fully, and with as much love as is in you to give.&nbsp;</h2>
Final note, my dad was one of the lucky ones. If you&rsquo;re reading this and thinking, I want to help fight cancer. I want to help the <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/understanding/statistics#:~:text=Approximately%2039.5%25%20of%20men%20and,will%20die%20of%20the%20disease.">40% of Americans that get diagnosed with cancer</a> during their lifetimes. Here&rsquo;s how you can take action:
<h2>Support cancer treatment research!&nbsp;</h2>
Give to the amazing people who are clocking in every day, having some of the toughest conversations you could ever imagine, compassionately helping suffering patients and their heartbroken families, working their butts off to develop better and better treatment for all forms of cancer. You can help them out by donating and aiding everyone that ever spoke the words, &lsquo;I&rsquo;ll fight&rsquo;.&nbsp;
<h2>Here are a few organizations you can give to:</h2>
<a href="http://www.pancan.org/">Pancreatic Cancer Action Network&nbsp;</a>
<a href="http://www.npcf.us/">National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation</a>
<a href="http://pancreatic.org/">Hinsberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research</a>
<a href="http://www.cityofhope.org">City of Hope</a>
<a href="http://www.stjude.org">Saint Jude Children&rsquo;s Research Hospital</a>
<a href="http://www.cancer.org">American Cancer Society</a>
<a href="https://www.ivybraintumorcenter.org/">Ivy Brain Tumor Center</a>
<h2>Why are you reading this on a comapny site? GREAT QUESTION. Here&rsquo;s the unexpected answer.&nbsp;</h2>
Spiral is the pioneer of the Impact-as-a-Service&trade; platform that helps banks and financial institutions easily embed sustainability, social impact, ESG, and CSR into their businesses. Their mission is to empower 10,000+ U.S. financial institutions and millions of people to contribute to a better world. It&rsquo;s an incredible opportunity to increase awareness and grow the impact of the Cancer research organizations I listed above.&nbsp;Thanks for reading my story!

I’m talking about Cancer. Nobody wants to think about cancer. And everyone prays they never get it. And if you’re about to stop reading because I’ve mentioned it twice already, let me just say this. The story I’m about to tell is really about hope, love and the power of the human spirit&#8230;


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