From the Desk of Phil Gilchrist, Executive Director
The holiday season is the perfect time to consider the importance of giving. Working in the nonprofit sector, I have seen firsthand the incredible impact that contributions—whether in time or money—can have on an organization. I want to take this opportunity to share why giving is important to me, how I get involved and how we can all help strengthen our local communities through giving.
Why I Give
I believe in supporting organizations that I personally know and trust. I have a close connection to the nonprofits I donate to. I’ve been involved in their work, seen their impact and believe in their missions. Giving to organizations that align with my values feels natural and rewarding.
I also find joy in responding to personal requests for donations. Even if I can’t give much, I love knowing I’m helping build a stronger community. It’s a small way to support something bigger than myself, and sometimes, a raffle ticket makes the experience even more fun, even if I don’t win!
How I Give
I typically give in two ways: volunteering my time and making direct donations.
I’m actively involved in organizations like the Mount Clemens Kiwanis Club and Macomb County Pride, where I served as a board member for five years. I also serve on the boards of CultureSource, the Macomb County Art Institute Authority and Mount Clemens Downtown Development Authority. Volunteering offers me the chance to positively impact my community and the larger region, even beyond my work at Advancing Macomb.
I also regularly donate to four nonprofits: the Anton Art Center, CultureSource, the Mount Clemens Kiwanis Club, and Macomb County Pride. I prefer giving monthly when possible because I know that small, consistent contributions add up. Even $25 a month equals $300 a year, and that can make a meaningful difference, especially for smaller organizations that rely on donations to keep running.
How You Can Give
If you are looking for ways to give back this holiday season, there are several ways to contribute, including:
- Donating Money: Nonprofits always appreciate financial support. Even small donations can make a big difference.
- Donating Time: Volunteering is another excellent way to give back. Many organizations need extra help during the holiday season.
- Donating In-Kind: Check with nonprofits to see if they need goods or services.
Choosing A Cause
The holiday season can be an overwhelming time for giving, with so many charities soliciting donations. How can you effectively vet an organization to ensure your contribution goes to a legitimate cause? Here are the tips I recommend:
- Consider its mission and values. Do they align with yours?
- Review their website and research their programs or initiatives. If possible, see if you can participate or volunteer to gain opportunities to learn more.
- Google the organization. Look for news articles or other resources that can tell you more. Did what you find reinforce your feelings?
- Visit a reputable website to check their 501(c)(3) charity status and other comprehensive details about the organization, such as:
-
- Review the organization’s financial reports. Nonprofits will often post audit reports or year-end financials on their websites, or you can find their recent IRS 990 filings.
- Be mindful when reading social media posts criticizing large nonprofits for high CEO salaries. These posts often fail to consider the real costs involved in operating these organizations and the fact that many nonprofit leaders earn less than their counterparts in the private sector with similar budgets. They also overlook the significant impact that many larger nonprofits have. Supporting large nonprofits is valuable and encouraged; just make sure you do your due diligence first.
Strengthening Our Communities
Nonprofits play a vital role in our communities, whether during the holiday season or throughout the year. They help fill the gaps left by government and private industry, providing essential services that people rely on. This is why giving is so important; it ensures that nonprofits can continue their crucial work. I encourage you to find a way to contribute this holiday season that resonates with you and to explore opportunities for continued involvement in the coming year. Together, we can make a significant impact on our communities.
