Random Acts of Internet Kindness: Donate Time or Money to Charity

As the holidays approach, many of us begin to look for new and creative ways to share our wealth and successes with others. Whether it's volunteering time, becoming a sponsor, or donating to various charities and organizations, the act of giving can be a rewarding activity any time of year. Today's online options can give you the benefit of giving with ease; random acts of kindness don't need to stay in your town or city! Take some steps to research and learn about new organizations and communities you may have an interest in. Today's networking tools and options provide a multitude of opportunity to give and share.

A complete giving portal at JustGive.org allows you to browse and review hundreds of nonprofit organizations, fundraising activities, and campaigns that may need your help The easy-to-navigate format allows you to track and review each of the services and funds; you can also make use of a wedding registry feature to allow guests to donate directly to your chosen charities and campaigns. The site works like a shopping portal, where you browse and search, add your selection of gifts to your shopping cart, then checkout in the end. It's a great start to learning more about particular communities, groups, and campaigns around the world.

The American Red Cross is a valuable resource for thousands who need disaster relief, community aid, and military services. The donation website allows you give directly online to any cause you wish; simply enter the amount you would like to donate, and even include an employer match or honorary gift in somebody's name. The minimum donation is $5.00, and you can enter credit card information easily on the secure site. The American Red Cross is one of the largest contributors to the Hurricane Katrina disaster relief fund, estimating a need of $2.116 billion in costs. The website also allows you to donate airline miles, stock, and spare change.

Habitat for Humanity is a national organization that helps to build houses and create volunteer groups in thousands of communities. Work projects, community fundraisers, and disaster relief networks are just a few of this organization's contributions and iniatives. The online donation programs include a Gifts from the Heart where you can honor someone special, Hope Builders monthly giving program that automatically lets you donate, or a simple one-time donation using a web form. A handy Quick Gift Guide on the site lets you see what value your dollars have for Habitat to purchase and fund particular items in their home-building projects.

The Salvation Army International offers a simple online donation service that can contribute to its large network of international programs. You can learn about each of their initiatives in Community Development, International AIDS funding, Womens Ministries, and other projects directly on the site. Donations are no longer reserved for the red bucket during the holiday season! The secure site accepts credit cards, and the donation is made instantly.

Giving and donating online are growing philanthropic avenues in today's busy world. You can select your favorite charities and create ongoing donations easily with today's online tools and platforms. Nonprofits and fundraisers can offer a variety of online programs that can boost their fundraising efforts significantly over the long term. This year, take the steps to get involved and contribute to at least one organization that needs your help!