Donor Tips

How much should I give? The old standard was one hour’s pay per month for community campaigns. It provides a monthly commitment to help the people you care about. Think about the monthly amount of help as well as the total gift when deciding.
Who to give to? Who are the people that you care about the most? What organizations help them? Do you care about an issue or your neighbors? Choose organizations that help those people?
What about the community of state employees? Do you know of fellow workers who need help or have received help? That might be a good place to start. Community is not just the place we live. We also belong to a community at work. Be sensitive to both places when considering your gift.
I always put money in kettles and buy candy from kids groups; that’s enough charity for me. Do you ever think about making a difference? Making a significant gift to a single organization helps them sustain successful programs and serve more people. Do both if you can.
How do I know what charities to trust? Ask others. Find people who will vouch for the work of a charity. Go to Guidestar.com. The local United Way reviews its member agencies for good service and strong programs.
There are thousands of great nonprofit organizations in Indiana that help people every day. They are governed by volunteers and operated by folks who live in your community with you. They help people who really need help, everyday.
If everyone gives a little bit, then we’ll all have a lot. It’s a great idea, but it is hard to get everyone to do something. If you give what you can, it still adds up with those who do give for a lot of help.
One who gives early gives twice. Volunteers are responsible for the SECC. When you give quickly and don’t require follow-up contact you give your money to your favorite charity and give time to your department volunteer.
Make a payroll deduction gift. It may only be a small amount from each pay, but it really can add up for your charity. They can depend on your gift all through the year.
My work is a contribution to my community. No matter what our work is or how much we volunteer, in today’s world somebody has to pay the bills. It may be lights for the gym, gas for the senior citizens van, food for the soup kitchen. Thanks for your other contributions, please don’t leave out your financial gifts.