Can giving to a charity make you richer?

You may be wondering why we would be talking about giving when you are likely struggling with your own finances right now. Studies indicate that the more you give, the more you receive. Whether or not that is true, giving certainly makes one feel wealthier and happier and sometimes that is all we need to provide us with the boost we need during uncertain times. Dr. Arthur C. Brooks, economist and professor at Syracuse University and author of Who Really Cares: The Surprising Truth about Compassionate Conservatism claims that giving to charity makes you richer and happier. His theory is based on Harvard’s 2000 Social Capital Community Benchmark Survey, which asserts that people who give to charity earn a significantly higher income than those who don’t. Giving just makes you feel better, and according to Dr. Brooks, it actually depresses stress hormones in the body.

Keep in mind that giving does not always have to be in the form of a cash donation. There are a number of ways you can better the lives of others by merely donating used items such as cell phones, cars, household appliances and an old pair of eyeglasses.

Eyeglasses

By donating your old eyeglasses to the Lions Club, you can help an adult succeed at their job, a child learn to read, or a senior citizen maintain their independence. Millions of people in developing nations have had their lives significantly improved by this well organized eyewear recycling project. It costs Lions less than 8 cents to provide a pair of recycled eyeglasses and change someone's life.  A similar program whose aim is helping people worldwide, is New Eyes for the Needy. This initiative also welcomes used hearing aids and jewelry.

Cell phones