Volunteerism
12th May 2008
I don’t have much cash, but an opportunity came up earlier this month to participate in the March of Dimes’ March for Babies. I never have money budgeted for this type of thing that always seems to come up in the office, but I did have time and this is a cause that I’m willing to support.
In church, we were always taught to give freely of our time, talent and treasure. Since I don’t have much talent, and I also am short on cash this month, I decided to give my time. DS and I went on Saturday and did the walk. We also somehow raised $100 from my family and friends. DS was born 2 months early to his biological mom - this is why this particular cause really touched my heart.
What do you do if people pass the hat around at work for fundraisers? What if it is truly a worthy cause for you? Am I a “bah-humbug” because I didn’t just work this into my budget and instead gave my time and solicited others’ money?
May 13th, 2008 at 12:59 am
I think passing the hat is in bad taste. It compels people to do charitable things out of appearances rather than doing what’s in their heart. Certainly, there’s no insurance will do anything at all if there’s no ‘hat’ to persuade them but I think you did the right thing. Maybe your example will lead others to make similar choices with their time.
Jerry
www.leads4insurance.com
May 13th, 2008 at 3:02 am
if it’s a small amount of cash, I might drop it for a friend, but usually I will tell people that I have made my charity donations (I support a variety of causes both with cash and my time and expertise).
Volunteering is really important, in that it can be more meaningful than just throwing money at a problem and is important to my own happiness.