In Support of Monthly Support: 5 Reasons to Make Charitable Giving a Regular Thing

Making automatic monthly payments turns good intentions into actions, without you having to lift a finger. Once you setup the initial payment, you don’t have to think about it again, unless you decide to cancel your recurring gift.

I used to give to nonprofits on my birthday and at Christmas. Despite good intentions, some years I would miss one or the other, sometimes the amount would vary, and

It makes things easier on nonprofits. Having a reliable source of income helps nonprofits plan their budgets, takes pressure off of nonprofits to raise funds, and frees up resources for program and operational costs.

How to Do It

First, decide on how much you are comfortable giving. If you have a hard time figuring out how much to start with, think about a luxury you’re willing to give up in order to support your favorite causes. Giving up one fancy coffee a week, frees up $20 a month, or $240 a year. A small change can make a big difference.

Second, pick an organization or two that are doing work you think is important. Look in your community, see who’s working to make it better.

Third, do a little research.

guidestar

charity navigator

better business bureau

Fourth, set it up. Nonprofits that have their a- game on will make it easy to find them, to figure out how to donate, and arrange monthly credit card or debit payments.

Just sign up and forget about it.

Step five - Add this into your monthly expenses in whatever budget system you use.

Optional - set a reminder on your calendar for a year from your start date. Reevaluate your nonprofit giving, make sure it still fits your budget and and your priorities.