So you've decided you want to learn a little bit about nonprofits and how to give your time, talent and treasure? You've come to the right place!

From giving an item or cash to donating time, making a gift to charity can take many forms. In this section we'll talk about gift giving in terms of financial or in-kind (giving stuff) gifts. Please refer to Volunteering Guidance for more information about giving your time and talents.

There are a number of ways you can give a gift to a nonprofit, including:

• Cash Gifts - $1, $5, $10, $1000 ... it doesn't matter than amount because cash gifts of all amounts matter to nonprofit organizations and can make a difference in the life of someone in need. Most nonprofit organizations will accept gifts payable by cash, checks and credit cards. Gifts can be made through the intranet, mail or in person.
• In-Kind Gifts - as the saying goes, "One man's junk is another man's treasure." Just as important as cash contributions are in-kind gifts, such as gently-worn clothing, electronics, cell phones, furniture, canned foods, etc. Some nonprofits, like Goodwill Industries or The Salvation Army, re-sell donated items to generate money for their programs and services. While other nonprofits, like food banks or homeless shelters, pass the donations directly to those in need. Keep in mind, when making an in-kind gift, make sure you're donating items that can actually be used by the nonprofit. Some nonprofits keep in-kind donation "wish lists" on their websites. Also, make sure whatever you donate is in good condition - a ripped shirt, even if it is a shirt, is of no use to anyone.
• Volunteer! Please see our volunteer guidance section for tips on how you can give your time to nonprofits you are passionate about.

No matter how you choose to give, make sure you follow our Dos & Don'ts of Gift Giving before parting with any cash or in-kind items.