You don’t have to make a major commitment to make a difference. There are many ways to support nonprofit organizations in Livingston County, whether you have money to give, time to volunteer, resources to share, or simply a willingness to help others discover their work.
Every organization has different needs, so the best place to start is by finding a cause you care about and learning how the organizations serving that cause can use your support.
Ways You Can Help
Donate: Financial contributions give nonprofit organizations the flexibility to fund programs, provide services, purchase needed resources, and respond to changing needs in the community.
You don’t have to make a large donation for it to matter. One-time gifts, recurring contributions, memorial donations, and other forms of financial support can collectively make a significant difference. Visit an organization’s profile to learn more about its work and find its preferred way to give.
Volunteer: Your time can be one of the most valuable things you give. Local nonprofits rely on volunteers to help deliver programs, organize events, serve clients, care for animals, maintain facilities, provide professional expertise, and handle countless other needs.
Volunteer opportunities can range from an occasional afternoon to an ongoing commitment. Find an organization whose mission interests you and ask where your time and skills could be most useful.
Donate Goods & Resources: Some organizations have ongoing needs for food, clothing, household items, school supplies, equipment, and other materials. Others may benefit from donated professional services, meeting space, transportation, or resources a local business or individual can provide.
Before collecting or donating items, check with the organization to find out what it currently needs. Giving something specifically requested can often be more helpful than assuming what might be useful.
Spread Awareness: Helping more people discover a nonprofit can have an impact of its own. Share an organization’s work with friends and family, follow and engage with it on social media, attend its events, or introduce others who may have an interest in its mission.
A recommendation from someone they trust may introduce a future donor, volunteer, partner, or person in need of the organization’s services.
Fundraise: You can also use your own network, event, business, school, club, or community group to raise support for a nonprofit you care about.
Fundraising can be as simple as asking for donations in place of birthday gifts or as involved as organizing an event or community campaign. Before getting started, contact the organization so your efforts align with its needs, policies, and preferred fundraising methods.