This #GivingTuesday, Consider Donating Your Most Precious Asset

Things seem different this year.  REI announced that they are shunning Black Friday, closing their stores and encouraging people to get outdoors instead. Gratitude seems to have finally found its way back to its deserving home at the Thanksgiving table which had momentarily been hijacked by the early shopping frenzy.

In other words, the world seems a bit more intentional and thoughtful than in previous years.  This #GivingTuesday, I am hopeful that people will continue to be intentional about their giving.  Rather than react to an ice bucket challenge or your friend’s race to raise money (both of which are important), my wish is that each of us stops for a minute to reflect on what we care about in the world - what really makes your soul soar -  and feel inspired to take action.

I will definitely be donating to some of my favorites charities:  DonorsChoose, Kansas Children’s Discovery Center (children’s museum in Topeka where I grew up) and CareerVillage.    But I also believe the most empowering action to take is to donate your most precious asset….your time.   It is the one gift that gives back immediately, rather than depleting your bank, replenishes it with energy.  

When it comes to donating your time, LinkedIn’s Volunteer Marketplace has more than 65,000 skills based opportunities from which to choose.   Three of my favorite to consider this holiday season include:

1. Volunteer virtually in a classroom (NYC):  Are you an international business professional? This is your opportunity to inspire students to follow in your footsteps.
2. Mentor a BUILD entrepreneur (Bay Area):  Support high school students from under resourced communities who are launching their own businesses.  
3. Write copy for a Tanzanian health organization (Virtual): The Maji Safe organization needs a talented copy writer as it updates its website.

So this Giving Tuesday, please do make donations to your favorite nonprofit in the world, but also consider finding an organization that speaks to your soul and donate your time and talent to help it continue to succeed.  And of course, don’t forget to add your volunteer experience to your LinkedIn profile.