$1 million gift just part of what makes us special

Here’s something to imagine — 1,000 people giving $1,000. Or 10,000 people giving $100. Or 100,000 people giving $10.
Or, as we prepare to celebrate National Philanthropy Day on November 12, imagine the impact of a single $1 million gift, like the one that Jane Stephens Comer made as the first woman in Alabama to [...]

Aldridge Gardens reflects power of putting down roots

Once upon a time, the Hoover property that now makes up Aldridge Botanical Gardens was the home of Eddie and Kay Aldridge. On Oct. 27, the house that has become the headquarters for the gardens once again became a place for the Aldridges to greet their guests, as honorary hosts for the Community Builder Legacy [...]

United Way ranks high in generosity and success

What does it mean to LIVE UNITED? For the annual United Way of Central Alabama campaign, the largest fundraising event in the state, LIVE UNITED means bringing people together to meet increasing needs.
This year, campaign leaders aim to raise $37.2 million in this workplace-giving campaign, because they know the needs of our community [...]

Wealthy who give most get more, stay happier

One statistic that is fun to quote shows that people who leave money to charity in their wills live longer on average. And now we hear that wealthy people who give away more become wealthier and happier than others in the same income category.
Thomas J. Stanley, who won a following with his book “The Millionaire [...]

Older generations take lead as volunteers

When you get older, you definitely get better, especially when it comes to volunteering and giving.
Yes, we’ve heard a lot about the high energy and community commitment of the next generation and we’re glad about that. But a recent survey from the Hartford Financial Services Group showed that 53 percent of people aged 50 [...]

Tips for giving more: Focus on one charity, join with others

Still looking for ways to increase your impact with limited charitable dollars? Make what can be a hard decision and concentrate all your giving for the year on one organization. Use the tips we have already talked about (research and call the Community Foundation for a recommendation, based on the charities you love).
The wonderful [...]

Tips for giving more: Turn down the freebies

So, you have made your charitable budget and been creative about giving more than money. Here’s one final tip (for now) about how you can help your favorite charity by saving them money on the “freebies” you sometimes get in return for your donation.
The IRS sets a limit for how much a charity can give [...]

Tips for giving more: Think outside the box

Think outside the box when you consider ways to give to charity. Of course, you can give your time, but what about a meeting room for a special event? Your office may have just the spot and save your favorite organization the cost of rental or setup.
Does your company offer a particular service, from lawn [...]

Tips for giving more: Do your research

So you’ve made a plan for your giving and you know the causes that really matter to you. How do you decide which nonprofit gets your carefully budgeted dollars?
Again, follow the same pattern you would for any investment. Do some research and ask the experts for advice.
In the Birmingham area, you can contact Jan [...]

Tips for giving more in tough times: Make a plan

If you can’t give more, can you give smarter?
First, make a plan. That’s what you would do with your household budget, right? So do it for charity too.
Ask your spouse and your kids what matters most to them and figure out a way to set aside a portion of your resources so you can give [...]