A Guide for Helping Those In Need

If you’re an altruistic person, you’ve probably looked around your community, your state, your nation, and your world and wondered how you could best help those in need. Fortunately, you aren’t alone! Today, Global Meals outlines some of the many pathways in which people just like you can make a difference.

What’s Important To You?

Many people have passions around certain issues, and narrowing your focus will help you identify the best ways to give back.

• If you love animals, you might volunteer at a local shelter, participate in a Humane Society adoption program, or temporarily care for homeless pets.
• If you want to help children, you could volunteer at a high-risk school, become a Big Brothers & Big Sisters mentor, or even consider becoming a foster parent.
• Want to help protect the environment? There are numerous environmental organizations that can use your support.
• Last but not least, getting your teaching certification is a great way to make a lasting change in your community, and doing so online means you can learn at your own pace without having to take time off work to focus on your studies.

Where Is There Need?

The answer is, of course, that need is everywhere, but there may be issues unique to where you live that you’d like to address.

• Go to your local United Way and ask about specific needs in your community and how you can help alleviate them.
• Visit a site like Volunteer Match and get connected to groups and efforts that align with your personal values.
• Don’t forget about global organizations like the Red Cross that operate wherever their services are necessary and are always in need of volunteers, in-kind, and financial support.

Launch A Non-Profit

If you want to help in a more official capacity, consider forming a non-profit. Each state has its own rules around non-profit formation, so do your due diligence and learn about your state compliance laws.

• Develop a business plan that includes the need you hope to address, the operational approach you’ll take, and how you will set goals and measure success.
• Apply for an EIN, or employer identification number, and incorporate at the state level – you might incorporate as an association or trust, or a limited liability company (LLC).
• Submit Federal Form 1023 – an application for tax-exempt status.

While the amount of need in the world can feel overwhelming, every little bit of effort helps. Ensure your time and money is going to reputable organizations and causes. Check your local Better Business Bureau or the Federal Trade Commission if you have any concerns.

Global Meals provides home-delivered meals to consumers across all 88 counties in Ohio. If you have any questions or you’d like to help, let us know!

Guest Writer Jennifer McGregor
Photo By Pixabay