"Life's persistent and most urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?'"
-- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Giving to nonprofits and charities in the name of serving communities should always be the main driver of generosity. But the benefits of giving back also positively impact donors. From mental and physical gains to tax incentives and social advantages, the act of giving is a win-win situation for all involved.
Mental Health and Physical Health Benefits
The mental health benefits of giving are well-documented. When you donate or volunteer, your brain releases “feel-good” chemicals like serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin, regulating your mood, inducing pleasure and fostering a sense of connection with others. So, the act of giving contributes to your overall well-being. It can even help to prevent or reduce anxiety and depression.
- Blood pressure
- Blood sugar levels
- LDL (“bad”) cholesterol
- Body mass index (BMI)
One could even argue that philanthropy enhances your cardiovascular health, as elevated levels of the above are major risk factors for heart disease. In fact, people who engage in acts of giving tend to live longer.
Tax Benefits
While the intrinsic rewards of giving are invaluable, there are also financial incentives, specifically considerable tax perks. Donations to qualified charitable organizations are often tax-deductible, allowing you to reduce your taxable income. This can be particularly beneficial for those in higher tax brackets, as it can lead to significant savings.
Social Benefits
Giving sets a positive example for everyone around you, such as the next generation of prospective philanthropists. Whether you're volunteering at a local nonprofit or donating to a global cause, your actions can inspire others and create a ripple effect. It can also help you feel more connected to your community, show that you care about meaningful initiatives and even expand your personal and professional network.
Serving Marginalized Populations
Due to systemic inequities, many underserved populations – including communities of people with intellectual or developmental disabilities – grapple with financial struggles and other forms of marginalization. Giving to such disadvantaged groups is often considered the embodiment of holiday generosity, and you’ll enjoy even more “warm fuzzies” in helping them thrive.
Support Disability Services with Envision Unlimited
Since 1948, Envision Unlimited has been dedicated to helping people with disabilities live happy, fulfilled lives in their communities. Our services – which include day programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities; mental health, residential, and employment services; and specialized foster care – are designed to address the unique needs of each of our 4,200+ members, regardless of age, background or ability to pay.
Envision Unlimited is one of the nation’s strongest advocates for the disability community. However, we can’t do it without your support. Please consider making a donation of cash or cryptocurrency today!