Why Do People Donate Money to Charitable Organizations?

Sometimes people donate money to charities due to an emotional connection.

People donate money to charities for a number of reasons. Sometimes you're motivated by a desire to have a tax write off at the end of the year. In other cases, you might be moved to donate money because you know someone involved with a particular organization. Understanding why people choose to donate is useful from a sociological perspective. It is also useful if you would like to work for charitable organizations seeking funds.

Religious Motivation

Many religions encourage the faithful to donate a portion of their income to the poor. Christianity, for instance, implores its followers to tithe. Tithing is giving away 10 percent of your annual income to the church or charitable organizations. Many religious people feel it is their duty to give to the less fortunate as part of their faith. Some also consider it an important step in finding salvation.

Personal Reasons

You might give money to charities for personal reasons. These can include giving to political causes you believe in or helping fund research into a cure for a disease or disorder you or a loved one suffers from. This may help you feel like you're taking some control in an issue you feel strongly about, and may also act as a form of tribute to a loved one, living or deceased.

Taxes

Many donations to charitable organizations are tax deductible. If you're looking for tax write off you may donate toward the end of the year in order to be eligible. Only funds given to legitimate organizations can be deducted. Those given to an individual do not qualify. The IRS recommends keeping careful records of donations. The amount given, the name of the organization and the date the money was sent are all important pieces of information to keep on file.

Altruism

Altruism is the concern for others, void of any selfishness or concern for personal gain. Many people feel compelled to give financial donations to charities because they wish to better the lives and circumstances of those in need. This qualifies as an act of altruism.

References

• Network For Good: Why People Donate
• Step By Step Fundraising: Reasons People Donate