OT: The spirit of giving

As we come into Christmas week, I want to encourage all of us to be generous to others, and to support causes that are important to us. This really is important for everyone, even if you don't have much, or are young. Generosity isn't about how much you give. Generosity is about giving how much you can.

This isn't about what you believe. You can celebrate Festivus, Hannukkah, Winter Solstice, Kwaanza, Christmas, none of them, or all of them. Doesn't matter. Generosity is good, regardless of your belief system.

There are a ton of causes you can support. I think pretty much everyone here is internet savvy enough to do research and make sure you are giving to a cause where most of the funds go to those in need, rather than to administration costs, etc.

Some of you will say that you have nothing to give. That may be true. But at least give of your time and your energy to serve others. Some of you will say "I give to beveled guilt" or "to myself." Those really are almost the same. I mean, everyone on this board should give something to mgoblog, but that isn't a charity for the needy.

Here are some well known examples (mostly linked) you can support:

• #chadtough
• American Cancer Society
• American Red Cross
• World Relief
• World Vision
• Feeding America
• Feed My Starving Children
• Mott Children's Hospital
• UofM Financial Aid (LSA, at least)

1. Often, there are small organizations that can really use your help a lot, and your help goes a long way for them. Of course, help whoever you want to help, but I know, for instance, that more overhead and administration costs go to United Way and Food for the Poor, and they are large and well funded. Look for someone small who is making a difference out there. I can guarantee, a local organization will really appreciate your help. I'll give you a personal example. My church has given away more than a million pounds of food over the last 10 years. We are looking to double what we give away, and are planning to build a dedicated building exclusively for this purpose. It has taken us years, but we now have about $150,000 and hope to break ground after Easter. We still are raising money for indoor plumbing and a walk in freezer and shelving for pallets. We'll get there when we get there. My point is, a small church can really use your help, and an organization that has donations in the hundreds of millions? It isn't as critical.
2. More than giving money, give of yourself. We read great stories of Michigan football players and basketball players going to Mott, and reaching out in the community. You can do the same thing, and should do the same thing. Go anonymously, if you want to maintain your exterior curmudgeonly persona. But find someplace to serve.
3. If you have been blessed, and really don't need more hannukkah gelt or Christmas gifts, give people the option to support causes that are important to you. That way, you won't have to deal with any tacky Christmas sweaters or ties or cologne you'll never use and which clutter your closet. And they don't have to waste time trying to find you the perfect gift.