About the donations I make…
Several people have been kind enough to comment on the donation program I began during the Covid lock down, so I thought it would be important to capture the history of why I chose to begin this program and ask advice.
During Covid (and every day since I started this business), I find that creating a new piece of jewelry or planning and sketching out ideas for one have kept me sane in retirement. Creative energy is exhausting if it is not channeled into something useful and productive. I can literally wear myself out thinking about things to make and not get anything else done but that - just think.
Having always done volunteer work of some kind in the community, I’m hyper aware that there are far more needs out there than resources and funds to address them. So, my idea to give back - even on a very tiny, not corporate scale - began with pledging varying percentages to Books for Keeps for every purchase made. From there, the list grew to the entire list which I highlight on my website and listed below.
I simplified the donation program to a straightforward 10% of purchases made (including custom orders) and allow everyone to designate where the donations go. In all honesty, it has not been a huge amount for any one group. (I accumulate amounts until I have enough to make a donation.)
When I do a Pop Up at a free location, I can designate the 10% of purchases made to a specific group, as I have done in the past with ESP (Extra Special People). I keep the offer out to all of these causes - allow me to do a pop up at a location designated by the group, and 10% goes to the group.
If I’m being honest, I haven’t had groups take me up on the offer, even though it is a no-risk venture for them, except to publicize it. Maybe they are aware the purchases would have to be fairly large for my donation to make a difference? Maybe they are busy trying to secure larger, corporate donations? I’m not trying to read anything into this other than to acknowledge that charities and good causes are suffering in these economic times with many challenges. I just want to help - however small that help may be.
Does anyone have any thoughts? I’m willing to take any and all suggestions! I’m including my list below. If you have another group you would like to support, let me know - it costs nothing to be added to my list.
As always, I appreciate any comments!
Here is my list...
American Cancer Society Relay for Life team, the "Hot Mamas," is raising funds to benefit cancer research. Customers may designate this team as the recipient of the designated donation on all purchases!
Athens Area Humane Society "rescue(s) and protect(s) companion animals by providing for their wellbeing, uniting them with loving homes, and advocating for a compassionate society."
Books for Keeps is a special organization in Athens that makes free books available to students for summer reading. This group is continually expanding its reach into qualifying schools. They need funds and volunteers to continue this important work.
Brightpaths (formerly Prevent Child Abuse Athens) is dedicated to preventing child abuse in all its forms.
Clarke County Mentor Program recruits, trains, and supports hundreds of mentors to children in Clarke County.
Extra Special People (ESP) "exists to provide transformative experiences for people with disabilities and their families, changing communities for the better."
The Salvation Army provides support to needy individuals and families. From basic food and housing needs to disaster relief - this organization is there to help.
A bracelet purchase for $55 generates $5.50 for a cause you designate... imagine how purchases could add up to donations!
I love it that you donate to worthy causes. You are right....there is so much need out there and we all need to do what we can to help. Remember, God blesses all that we give so your contribution is not 'small'.