461-Happiness in Birthday Fundraisers

Your birthdays are all about you? Right? What if you could make yourself, your social circle, and your community happier with a simple birthday act? Tune in to find out more!

 

Transcript:

 

Welcome to Everyday Happiness where we create lasting happiness, in about 2 minutes a day,  through my signature method of Intentional Margins® (creating harmony between your to-dos and your priorities), happiness science, and musings about life. 

 

I'm your host Katie Jefcoat, I want to take today to talk specifically about using your birthday as a charity fundraiser.  I was inspired by all the Facebook posts that make it so easy and my friend Chelsey, an avid listener and supporter of this podcast recently sent me an email about her September charity Endless Pawsabilities, the link is in the show notes, I invite you to check it out - it’s very creative.  

You have likely seen news of children asking for donations to a charity as birthday presents rather than getting toys. It always creates that “awww" moment where you are impressed by the child's generosity and wish you had done something like that. I am here today to tell you that you can, even as an adult. But, first, let's take a moment to review the 3 happiness benefits you will receive.

First, you will make yourself happy. Giving to others is the easiest method of promoting your happiness, especially when it is a charity that you feel passionate about. Whether you are helping your local animal shelter, giving to children in need, or aiding wounded veterans, the simple act of making a difference will provide you with glowing happiness for months to come.

Second, you make the benefactors happy. Here on Everyday Happiness, we talk about how kindness is contagious; whether you donate directly to a person in need or to a larger organization, the people who benefit are grateful you are giving them a greater chance at increasing their own happiness.

Thirdly, you provide happiness to donators. The people who donate to your charity birthday will also feel that surge of happiness! On top of that, they are more likely to recognize the benefits of charity and make it a regular part of their life, creating an even more significant impact on the community.

See! Three levels of happiness: you, your loved ones, and your community all in one birthday!

Now, if you have been inspired to host a charity birthday, whether for yourself or your kiddos, I commend you and have a few notes to keep in mind.

First, pick a worthwhile charity. I recommend finding a topic you are passionate about and investigating a reliable, honest charity that supports it. If possible, look into your local charities rather than big brand ones. While the big ones are worthwhile, they have greater access to funding than smaller charities. Picking a local one could make a bigger difference in your community.

Second, make a plan. Rather than waiting until the day of the birthday to announce your charity idea, you should let everyone know well in advance. I recommend talking it up, sending emails, posting it on your social media, and getting the word out that you are asking for donations rather than gifts.

Third, make it obvious where to donate. When you host a charity birthday, make it super easy for your friends, family, and circle of possible donators to donate. Send them a link or instructions so they can complete the act in minutes. 

That is all for today! Do you have ideas on how one should host a birthday fundraiser? I’m obsessed with this idea, let me know over @everydayhappinesswithkatie.

And remember, kindness is contagious. 

P.S.  If you are getting this via email, just hit the reply button if you want to share! :) 

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