4 Reasons Why You Should Donate to Charities This Season

'Tis the season of giving and thinking of others. That's why you're probably seeing the signs of charitable organizations hovering around retail stores. Most of us feel we are too busy to take the time to pull some bills out of our wallets, or maybe we don't have any to spare. But did you know that most charities at this time of the year are requesting clothing and food items? Just a trip to your pantry or closet can provide someone with a few needed essentials from your excess. So why not give this charity thing a chance this year? It's not just a time for giving to your family, but to those outside of your family that likely won't be having as happy a time this season. So, don't let these opportunities to give pass you by; consider, if you will, these four reasons to donate to charities this year.

1.It just feels good

This may sound a bit lame, but it's true; giving really does make us feel good. There are so many people in the world and in our own neighborhoods around us that are in need. Why not show them some Holiday cheer? When we take the time to give we benefit more than the recipient with those "warm and tingly" feelings that we don't plan on expressing aloud. So without a doubt the number one reason why we give is because it is the right thing to do and we feel so darn good about it.

2.Easy

You really don't have any excuse not to help out because charitable organizations have made it super easy for you to contribute. Bell ringers stand outside of supermarkets, bags are placed on our doors for food drive pick ups, and drop-offs for donations are in just about every store we shop in. So just take the time to use these convenient ways to give back to your community; you won't regret it.

3.Inexpensive

It is hardly expensive to offer a small gift, some cans of food, or other items that might be requested. Many food drives merely ask for three items-that's about $3.00 or less out of your wallet. And the popular Toys for Tots charity simply ask for an unwrapped toy for a child-how fun and easy is that? But it can get pretty expensive if you give to every charity you see, so just pick a few that you want to support and make the small effort to donate.

4.There are so many different ways to give

Look around your community for charity organizations that you feel are worthy. Some charities request just the use of your talents; for example, Michael's craft stores ask for a knitted or crocheted 7 X 9 inch square, which they will join to make blankets. If you are an avid knitter, you probably have tons of left over yarn that is too small to make other projects with; making these squares takes only about 30 minutes and the cause is worthy. If you are more ambitious, you can even ship cookies to our troops (look online to find some organizations that do this and see where you can ship them). But for those of you that don't want to put time into your donations, the food drives that set up at the exits and entrances of grocery stores is an easy way to donate a few cans as you leave. This takes no time at all, as you'll be in the store shopping regularly, and you don't have to try to figure out where to drop them off. It's that easy.

Find the time to give this season and you'll be much happier for the effort. Promise.