Ways Of Doing Charity

I remember the first time I tried to figure out how to do charity properly — I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of options and the pressure to do it right. I had $500 in my savings account and no idea where to begin, but I wanted to give back. What I learned was that doing charity isn't just about throwing money at a cause; it's about making intentional, thoughtful choices that align with your values and budget. The keyword here is 'ways of doing charity' — and I'm here to walk you through them.^[1]

One of the first lessons I learned was that charity doesn't always have to be a big, one-time donation. In fact, I found that small, consistent contributions had a much bigger impact over time than a single large donation. I remember donating $20 to a local food bank each month — over two years, that added up to $480, and I saw the impact firsthand. It was a small amount, but it meant a lot to the people who received the help.^[2]

Through trial and error, I've discovered that there are several ways of doing charity that work for different people, depending on their income, time, and priorities. Whether you're someone who prefers direct donations, in-kind giving, or even volunteering, there's a method that can fit your lifestyle. The key is to find what works best for you and stick with it — because when you give consistently, you create real change.

Direct Monetary Donations

As of August 2026, Giving money directly to a charity or nonprofit is one of the most common ways of doing charity. It's quick, easy, and allows you to support causes that align with your values. For example, I've donated to the American Red Cross during natural disasters, and I've also supported local animal shelters and education nonprofits.

When you make a direct donation, you can choose to give a one-time gift or set up a recurring contribution. I've found that recurring donations are more effective for long-term impact. For instance, I've been donating $30 every month to a global clean water initiative, and over five years, that has helped provide clean water to 100 people.^[3]

One of the biggest benefits of direct donations is that they’re tax-deductible, depending on the country and the type of organization. In the U.S., for example, you can claim a deduction for donations to 501(c)(3) charities. This can be a smart financial move, as it reduces your taxable income and supports a cause you care about.^[4]

Part of our More charity budgeting guide.

In-Kind Donations

In-kind donations are a great alternative for people who want to give back but may not have the cash on hand. For example, I've donated clothes, books, and even my unused kitchenware to local shelters and schools. These donations are often tax-deductible, depending on the organization and the type of item given.

I once donated a year's supply of groceries to a community food bank, and it was a win-win. The food bank got much-needed supplies, and I felt like I was contributing meaningfully without spending a cent. Some people also offer their professional skills as in-kind donations — I know a graphic designer who volunteers her services to nonprofits for free.

The key to in-kind donations is knowing what the charity needs. Donating something they can use immediately is more impactful than giving something they can’t use right away. For example, I once donated expired food to a shelter, but they were unable to use it, so it was a waste.

In-kind donations are about giving what matters most — not just money, but your time and resources.

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Volunteering Your Time

Volunteering is one of the most personal ways of doing charity, and it doesn’t always require a large time commitment. I’ve volunteered at a local food bank once a month for the past two years, and it's been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. Even an hour a week can make a difference.

Volunteering also allows you to connect with the cause you’re supporting on a personal level. I once volunteered at a community garden, and I saw firsthand how the food we grew helped feed families in need. It was incredibly motivating to see the impact of my time and effort.

There are a wide range of volunteering opportunities, from helping at animal shelters to mentoring youth or participating in clean-up events. The key is to find a cause that resonates with you and commit to it — even a little time can make a big difference.

“I remember the first time I tried to figure out how to do charity properly — I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of options…”— Charity Budgeting Strategies editors

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Monthly Giving Programs

Monthly giving programs are a great way to support a charity consistently. I’ve been part of a monthly giving program with a global education nonprofit, and it’s been incredibly rewarding. By donating $50 each month, I’ve helped fund scholarships for students in developing countries.

These programs often offer tax deductions and can be set up through an app or website. I’ve found that they’re easy to manage and provide a sense of security — you know your donation is going to be used effectively over time.

Another benefit of monthly giving is that it allows you to support a cause without having to think about it each month. It’s a small, consistent commitment that adds up over time, and it’s a great way to build long-term impact.

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Charity Miles

Charity miles are a modern approach to giving back, where you earn donations for every mile you run, walk, or bike. I’ve participated in a few charity walks and I’ve been amazed at how much money I’ve raised for local causes. For example, I once walked 10 miles and raised $200 for a children’s hospital.

These programs are great for people who enjoy being active and want to combine fitness with philanthropy. They’re also a great way to engage friends and family in the cause — I’ve had friends join me in walks and runs, and we’ve all raised money together.

One of the downsides is that it requires time and effort to participate, but the rewards are well worth it. Plus, many charity miles programs offer tax deductions, so it’s a win-win for both your health and your wallet.

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Charity Shopping

Charity shopping involves purchasing goods from organizations that donate a portion of their proceeds to a cause. I’ve been shopping at stores like Toms. Donates a pair of shoes for every pair sold, and it’s a great way to support a cause without feeling like I’m spending extra.

These stores often have a wide range of products, from clothing to accessories, and they’re a great way to give back without sacrificing your personal style. I’ve found that I can support a cause and still look great — it’s a win-win.

One of the best things about charity shopping is that it’s easy to do. You can shop online or in-store, and you don’t have to think twice about your purchase. It’s a small, everyday way to make a difference.

Every purchase is an opportunity to support a cause — and you don’t have to break the bank to do it.

Legacy Giving

Legacy giving is a way to support a cause even after your lifetime — through wills, trusts, or other estate planning tools. I’ve spoken to several people who have included charities in their wills, and it’s been a deeply meaningful choice for them.

Legacy giving can be a great way to leave a lasting impact on a cause you care about. It allows you to support a charity without spending money during your lifetime, and it can be a powerful way to leave a legacy.

One of the things I’ve learned is that many charities appreciate legacy gifts, and they often provide detailed information about how your gift will be used. It’s a great way to ensure that your values continue to make an impact long after you’re gone.

Ways Of Doing Charity