Is It Better To Donate Time Or Money To A Charity?

You want to do good in the world. That’s incredible. What’s even more beautiful is you’re not alone. In 2018, both volunteering and charitable giving of time and money broke records.

Over 77 million American adults engaged in donating time in 2018. During the same year giving topped $400 billion for the very first time.

While many Americans are already giving back to various charities, others aren’t sure where to start. Or wonder about their approach. They’re left questioning — Is it better to donate time or money to a charity?

Let’s explore both kinds of charitable giving to see what’s best for you

When to Donate Time

More than 30% of American adults volunteer through an organization. Whether it’s part of a company’s policy or personal choice individuals or families make, there’s no doubt Americans are generous with their time.

Additionally, more people take on informal roles, performing acts of service for friends, family, and neighbors.

Based on different surveys, best estimates say that 1 out of every two adults performs some service work.

But is donating time effective?

According to the Independent Sector, the answer is yes. By the group’s estimates,over 8 billion hours of service work was performed. That work is valued at more than $25 an hour.

Sharing time, effort, and talents in this capacity is a massive help to organizations around the country.

Where to Volunteer

If you or your whole family is feeling inspired, there are dozens of ways to give back. Local organizations that could use your support include:

• Food pantries
• Soup kitchens
• Homeless shelters
• Animal shelters
• Veterans organizations
• Religious organizations
• Schools and libraries

Even if you don’t feel like you have a particular talent to share (you likely do!), many volunteer positions come with hands-on training and include tasks designed for most people to be able to perform.