Deciding to support foundations can be challenging. Many people wonder, “Will my efforts actually make a difference?” In short, yes, donations impact lives! To understand the power of contributions, read these myths and misconceptions about charitable giving, and discover their realities.
Only Monetary Donations Matter
Many people think charitable giving means large monetary donations. As a result, people often shy away from donations due to financial restrictions. However, charitable giving thrives on diverse donor profiles. You don’t need lots of money to make a difference! In fact, volunteering your time and organizing a drive are ways to donate to charities while sticking to a budget. Foundations depend on volunteers for daily tasks like serving people at soup kitchens or walking dogs at animal rescues. Physically helping charities makes a bigger impact than monetary donations.
Only Political Actions Create Real Change
The idea that political actions alone create real change is a misconception about charitable giving. Some people view donations as temporary solutions to larger problems. As a result, they assume political action is the only way to make systematic change, claiming things like, “If Congress focused on poverty, they would solve homelessness.” Statements like those aren’t necessarily true. Charity and political action aren’t conflicting forces. Both play a significant role in helping the world! While officials work on the government/logistical side of things, nonprofits focus on current needs and need our help to meet those needs.
Charities Are Poverty-Focused
Although reducing global poverty is extremely relevant to charities, it’s not the only problem. There are many foundations focusing on a variety of needs. For example, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is a nonprofit that rescues and protects animals in need. Likewise, the Boys and Girls Club of America provides after-school programs to young people to help them become responsible citizens. Assisting organizations that change social norms and safeguard the future is important! People should research local nonprofits and donate to their preferred organizations.
Money Covers Nonprofit’s Overhead Costs
Some individuals think giving to nonprofits is pointless because most of the money goes toward administration costs. While it’s true that organizations use the money for building upkeep and staff, it’s not as much as people think. According to CERN & Society’s 2021 annual report, they transferred 99.3 percent of expenditures to grants. Overall, most of charitable giving helps the intended groups.
