Random Question for today: "Giving" - 11/22
 

In the spirit of the holidays and giving, what are some of your favorite charities and 'causes' that you either give to or would like to give to? Which ones are most important to you and why?

Any charity or organization that helps any kind of child really hits home with me since I'm a mother. So, I really try to give a little here and there, even if it's just dropping some change or a dollar into the Ronald McDonald House donation box at McD's. I'm also a huge supporter of March of Dimes and St Judes.

Autism Society of America - My stepson has Autism so work in preventing others from suffering from this in the future is good in my book.

World Wildlife Fund - Biodiversity of life on this planet is the key to the survival of humanity.

Children's Hospital & Shriner's Hospital - Both provide free and reduced cost care for children who have cancer or have been involved in a traumatic accident.

Grace Resources - Local charity that provides food.

Antelope Valley Domestic Violence Shelter - Another local charity that is one of the few that provides resources to men and women victims of domestic violence.

The Exotic Feline Breeding Compound - Dedicated to preserving the most endangered of the world's big cats.

Saddle Up Therapeutic Riding Center - Provides therapy for disabled children through horseback riding. Another local charity.

We also participate heavily in local toys drives and Toys for Tots. In the past we have given donations to the Red Cross for major events (Northridge Earthquake, Tsunami Victims, Katrina) but don't donate to them very often otherwise. I also give blood at the local hospital on a regular basis.

I'm also a supporter of these two, as well. :up:

I raised with the philosophy that it isn't how much you give to charity but how often so we give quite regularly.

Growing up I did a lot of fund raisers for St. Jude (when I lived in Memphis) and for a few years I was one of the top fund raisers (locally) for the Math-a-Thon. It really felt good to help others out - even as a kid myself by doing something like solving simple math problems to raise money. That was back in the 80s though. If I thought of one that was something I would give to - St. Jude crosses my mind every time.