The new year is the time for resolutions - weight loss, saving money, clean the attic/garage or a new hairdo. We should make it a point to add paying it forward or giving back on our list. "Each one, help one" should be the new mantra. So while you cleaning & purging, gather those old clothes and trinkets you haven't dusted in a few years & give them to AmVets or Good Will who provide training programs for the homeless, disabled or underprivileged. Better yet, visit www.givelocally.net, a micro-donation social network whose main goal is find someone or family in need & directly help them. Many times we have given money to an organization who helps a group of people; however 35% of the donation is used for administrative purposes. With Givelocally.net you can choose a recipient thru an online profile - the person or family you choose might have experienced a similar hardship to your own or someone you know. Givelocally.net accepts applications from those needing assistance, rigorously screens the applicants & confirms their needs thru 3rd parties. If you know anyone that can benefit from the kindness of the website, you can suggest or recommend anyone. Donations from the site is used to pay tuition, medical bills, rent, food and utility bills & cash support is giving directly to bill collectors, not the recipient! In two and a half years, Givelocally.net has helped raise $200,000.
I'm loving the December 2012 issue of Black Enterprise! Great article on "The Business of Giving Back."
