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Philanthropic Jazz

Philanthropy in Your Neighborhood
Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.

During the past two decades philanthropy has become a subject of increasing interest—addressing human challenges and strengthening ties between global communites. A powerful thought movement has led individuals and organizations to take action and improve the social and economic quality of living worldwide. When the bigger picture is in view, the inspired may seek to immediately change the world, or at least the lives of those across it. Serving the global community is a noble and worthwhile mission but don't forget those in need right in your own neighborhood.

The proverb "Charity begins at home" doesn't end with family and friends. Rather than (or in addition to) participating in global efforts, consider the individuals and groups in your own community who can benefit from your support "right here, right now."

Many communites have a large number of nonprofit organizations that contribute significantly to the quality of life in that area. These include:

Social service nonprofits who provide support to families and help individuals become productive members of society.
Environmental organizations to ensure the health and preservation of all living things within the area.
Cultural and historical programs to enrich the lives and learning of community members.
Religious organizations who provide spiritual counsel and contribute significantly to philanthropic efforts.

The bad news is a lot of these local nonprofits aren't doing so well. Funding cuts for these organizations can impact even the most necessary services-- and of course, during times of economic turmoil when contributions are low, the need for these services becomes increasingly high. This holiday season, consider donating funds or time to the organizations that make your community a better place. The rewards are endless; not the least of which is witnessing first-hand what your good works have accomplished.

Why should you support local nonprofits?

Your local nonprofits channel the funding they receive from your community back into the community.
Your local nonprofits often have the work of ten people being completed by one or two.
Your local nonprofits' budgets generally are not big.
Usually members, volunteers and donors are especially passionate about what they can accomplish since it will directly affect members of their community.
Most of all, these efforts are helping your community, your family and maybe even you

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Finding a local nonprofit to serve can be a difficult process. You want to make sure that the organization is established and has demonstrated some results based on your expectations. Here are some sites that can help you locate nonprofits in your area:

• www.volunteermatch.org - Helps visitors find volunteering opportunities by location and interest

• www.idealist.org - Interactive site where people and organizations can exchange resources and ideas and locate opportunities and support

• www.allforgood.org - Network of HandsOn Action Centers with projects and programs to equip and mobilize people who want to contribute to timely causes in their community