(ARA) - Although nonprofit organizations around the nation are starting to feel the pinch of a softening economy, the events of Sept. 11 gave many Americans a renewed energy for volunteering and making charitable donations. In fact, a recent survey from the nonprofit Independent Sector shows that 70 percent of Americans reported some form of charitable involvement in response to Sept. 11.

"In recent months, we've seen a great many people coming forward and looking for ways they can help -- people have a desire to make a difference," says Jill Schumann, president and CEO, Lutheran Services in America, the nation's largest health and human services charity (The NonProfit Times, Nov. 2001). "The events of Sept. 11 helped many Americans recognize that an entire community benefits when people donate their time, talents and treasures. If we can count on each other's generosity and compassion, each of us is less vulnerable."

If you're thinking about joining the growing list of volunteers and donors, Schumann recommends taking some time to consider your options and determine how you might best be able to help.

Tips for Making Financial Gifts

Even before the outpouring of charitable support and donations that came in the wake of Sept. 11, Americans were no strangers to generosity. According to the AAFRC Trust for Philanthropy, Americans donated a record $203.45 billion to nonprofit organizations in 2000, the most recent year for which statistics are available.

Schumann's tips for making financial gifts include:

* Learn more about local opportunities. "Take a walk or drive around your city and look for opportunities where you might want to contribute money or your time," Schumann said. "Explore at least one local charity in more detail."

* Create a giving budget. Integrate philanthropic activities into your household budget by determining a set amount of income you can donate to charity each month. To make the job easier, consult with your financial planner or use one of many free online budgeting calculators available on the Internet.

* Make your gift go further with matching gifts. Many employers or social service organizations will match gifts made by their employees or make grants to organizations recommended by employees.

* Promote philanthropy among others. Consider hosting a dinner party for your friends where you can discuss ways to give more. Share information about your favorite charitable organization with your family and friends.

Consider Giving Your Time

Person-to-person support is also very important. If you'd like to give more than just a financial gift, consider volunteer opportunities in your area.

"People aren't islands," Schumann says. "We all face times when we need the help of others. And there are also times when we should be there for someone else. Giving of time and talent is not just the right thing to do, it can also help you learn new skills, open up valuable contacts in your community and really generate a positive feeling of accomplishment."

It's easy to volunteer without giving up much of your personal time -- even if you work full-time. Schumann points out that most non-profit organizations are happy to receive any available help. "For instance, once a month, you could deliver meals to the elderly," she says. "In a single hour per month, easily done over your noon-hour break, you could benefit many."

Schumann offers this advice for potential volunteers:

* Research the causes or issues important to you. Look for a group that deals with your "hot button" issues. If you're already giving money to such an organization, perhaps you'd also like to donate some of your time.

* Hone existing skills -- or learn something new. If you have expertise in a certain area, such as building a Web site or tutoring youngsters, you may want to further develop your skills in a volunteer position. Or, if you're looking to learn something new, consider opportunities that offer training in an unfamiliar skill.

* Expand the circle. Make your experience more enriching by finding volunteer opportunities suitable for your family and your friends. If you're a parent, for example, you may want to volunteer at an organization where your children can also participate -- the experience can help teach children the value of helping others and will help bring your family closer together.

* Don't overdo it. While it's great to donate as much of your time as possible, it's also important to avoid volunteer burnout. Manage your volunteer time wisely so you don't exhaust yourself or neglect spending time with your loved ones.

* Consider all of your options. While some volunteer opportunities are easily accessible, such as those at hospitals and libraries, don't forget about other, less-obvious choices. Consider church-sponsored soup kitchens, daycare centers, drug rehabilitation centers, group homes for adolescents, retirement centers and women's shelters.

Find Out More

Finally, Schumann recommends making a commitment to do more in your area.

"There's a strong current of connection and care that runs through American communities," Schumann says. "Reaching out to help one another can help strengthen the entire fabric of a community."

Learn how you, your friends and family can get involved at a Lutheran health or human services organization near you by calling LSA toll-free at (800) 664-3848.

Courtesy of ARA Content

EDITOR'S NOTE: For more information, contact Sandy Swanson, (612) 455-1760.