Giving to Habitat: A gift with many values

When someone makes a donation to a cause, we assume it is because they are moved by the needs of others and want to help.  I think that’s a pretty safe assumption.  But there is more to it than that.  Giving has both tangible and  intangible value — and you can donate just about anything:  your time, money, commodities — even your advice and ideas.

I believe charitable choices are largely driven by an individual’s own inclinations and preferences, a desire to help people with whom we feel some affinity, and maybe a partiality to certain causes as a result of personal experiences. In short, we give to things that matter to us.

Depending upon the cause, my motivations for giving might not always be as high-minded as I think they should be.  Occasionally I’ll support something one of my friends cares deeply about, or I’ll do something small, like buying some wrapping paper from one of my neighbor’s children.  But my bigger philanthropic decisions are always something I am passionate about — housing, education, and health and wellness. While it unquestionably benefits the organization, it often seems to benefit me, too.

Giving is something we do for others that comes with many personal, social and financial benefits:
• Helping improve a community or neighborhood
• Supporting a cause that’s personal and that you believe in
• Connecting with passionate and like-minded people
• Expanding your professional network and using your skills for good
• Receiving a tax deduction for a financial or in-kind contribution

I find that when I do something that is good for others, I usually end up feeling really good about it too.  If you choose to give — time, a gift in-kind, or money — to Habitat, I hope you feel really good about it.  I also hope it establishes either the start of a personal relationship with us, or solidifies the one you already have. 

If you have volunteered with us — thank you!  I hope you’ll consider supporting us financially, too.  It takes money to prepare families to be successful homeowners, purchase land and build homes.  If you support us financially— thank you!   I hope you’ll consider swinging a hammer, joining a committee, advocating for affordable housing or offering someone “A Brush With Kindness” by doing some light home repairs, painting, or handicap accessibility upgrades.

No matter which way you might choose to give, I am certain that you will feel really good about it.  I hope all the personal, social and financial benefits that might motivate you to give are realized.  Because I also know that the Habitat families whose lives you change with your giving will feel as good as you do.

By Kathy Tolo, Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity