BERGEN COUNTY, N.J. – The holiday season is not only about gifts and extravagant light displays, but also a time when we are reminded that it’s important to be kind and give back. And according to TopCashback.com, the USA’s most generous cashback site, 84% of Americans feel the most generous around the holidays.
The survey polled a cross section of 1,363 adults, aged 18 and over.
Why people donate
They were asked “Does giving back make you feel good?” Adults answered yes at 99% and no at 1%.
Do the holidays affect your donation habits? Fifty-seven percent said yes, and 43% answered no.
What do you donate most during the holidays? The top five answers included money at 36%, clothes at 21%, toys at 18%, food at 13% and volunteer time at 12%.
Americans support businesses that donate
While most Americans are bound to shop for gifts, decorations and more, the study also found that seven in 10 respondents or 70% are more likely to shop at a particular store or brand if they donate a portion of the proceeds or merchandise to a good cause.
Do you take the time to research stores and brands who give back? The responses showed 50% answered yes, and 50% answered no.
So, whether it’s through donating, volunteering or supporting a business that cares, here are five ways to give back throughout the holiday season from Rebecca Gramuglia, consumer expert at TopCashback.com.
Donate. If you are looking to donate to an organization this holiday season, it’s essential to do your research. Use a site like Charity Navigator, which focuses on educating donors on specific charities, to help you decide where your money should go. And if you’re looking to combine donating with shopping, you can donate any payable cashback to Direct Relief through http://TopCashback.com.
Shop at stores that give. Around the holidays you’ll find lots of stores that give back – whether it’s locally, nationally or internationally, there will likely be a chance for you to give back simply by shopping. Retailers like Olivela, Pura Vida Bracelets, TOMS and DIFF Eyewear combine giving back with their brand. Whether it’s donating a portion of the proceeds to a charitable organization or donating products to those in need, you can easily shop and give back at the same time.
Volunteer. As we know this holiday season will look and feel different, but volunteers are still needed. If you want to safely donate your time in-person, check with your local organization to make sure they’re accepting volunteers.
Set up a holiday food drive. Picking the right organization to donate to can be a tough decision. So if you’re struggling with where to start, a good rule of thumb is to start locally. This holiday season, safely connect with your neighbors and organize either an in-person or virtual food drive to help your local food bank. Food drives are a helpful way to stock the shelves for those in need and bring attention to hunger in your community. Pro-tip: Reach out to your local food bank ahead of time to see if they’re accepting donations and noting what they’re in need of.
Give a gift that gives back. Whether it’s gifts or donating, the holiday season is all about giving. This year, spread the love and cheer twice as far and consider donating to your preferred charity in honor of your friends and family instead of giving them a physical gift.
Submitted by Topcashback.com.
