I donate money secretly, and my time with as little fan far as possible. The returns are immediate and lasting. Read that last line again, please. Start with something very small, a kind act or an anonymous donation of five bucks to someone who needs food or diapers for a baby. If something is missing from your life, in lieu of a religious experience, this could help with fulfillment. Once again: The returns are immediate and lasting.
Donating in anyway whether it is time, money, etc... is very good. Right now I am just starting to trade but I have seen people make money, and someday, I wish I can be at the level where I can donate to good causes. God bless you all who has made a kind gesture.
I have sex with supermodels. Teach them how to love and laugh, there are no kinder deeds in this world then this!
Although extremely sad, this is 100% true. The American people and gov can give billions of dollars and it would help nothing. Many people in Africa live in poverty because of only one reason...their government. I have several Kenyan friends and also have a few friends that studied abroad in Africa. They all say this is true. All the efforts (money donated) to help feed children, clean water, build buildings in, say, Uganda are going nowhere but Ugandan leaders pockets. Even if you go over there yourself and build a library for children, it will likely be tore down by the Ugandan Government. I'm not knocking anyone who donates, because that is a great thing. This is just the cold, sad truth.
Very thoughtful thread! Speaking of African charities, there is a gent in my Church that went on Safari 10 years ago, and after seeing the conditions first hand, opened an orphanage with his own $'s. Herb and Virginia go back every year, though they are in their late 70's to manage the facility. I believe they have grown to 3 locations and over 100 kids. I know they are legit with no overhead. If anyone is interested PM me and I can hook you up with Herb. On my side I am a firm believer in anonymous giving. I like to hear or see firsthand of a need, then solve it. It is easy to purchase and then have the "gift" sent or delivered. I like to attach a note of encouragement, and compliment the person for some of the selfless acts of service that I have seen them perform for humanity. It is great to see them brighten up, and wonder why me?, what did I do that was that special? ... never giving on who it was that sent it. This way you know your gift was received, and get to see firsthand the impact. I typically give goods, not $'s. But there is a current situation that needs $'s. Perhaps someone here can help me out. I print my own checks, so I can remove all the identifying info on the top left. Most people won't track down the routing numbers and account numbers. But the signature is the problem. Can I sign a signature card with Bill Smith at the bank then sign with this alias? I don't want them to see my name on the check. Because of the amount it has to go by check, not a "bag of bills." Ideas welcome!
The purchase and up keep of a Ford Excursion ( junk that'll break down in 12 months ) can feed and educate a whole village for generations. If you really want to help, this is a good place to start. You can start with as little as $25 / yr . http://www.kiva.org/app.php
Give and ye shall recieve ! It's really just that simple. Proverbs 28:27 27 He who gives to the poor will lack nothing, but he who closes his eyes to them receives many curses.