Give locally: Make a difference in your own backyard

As Fall approaches, nonprofits are making plans for year-end giving campaigns. Donors, too, are asking how they can make the biggest difference right in their own backyard.

As the year ends and you explore charitable giving opportunities and hear about local needs, it can be helpful to do some digging.

Over the years, researchers have consistently validated the important emotional elements of giving to familiar and nearby organizations. Giving locally offers a rewarding sense of connection; many donors want to be able to actually see the results of charitable investments. Here are a few suggestions to begin your “give local” journey.

First, scan the local news. Those who spend a few minutes each day reading through the Boernearea news might be surprised at how much they learn about their own community.

The Boerne Star is always featuring charitable organizations doing amazing work. You can make a note of issues that interest you, that you’d like to learn more about, or that make you think: “I hope someone is doing something about that.”

Based on your research, do a few quick internet searches with the key words you’ve identified, along with the terms “nonprofit,” “charity,” and “Boerne” or “Kendall County.” Sometimes these searches will highlight organizations you might have heard of or even be involved with already.

It’ll likely unearth some efforts new to you as well. If you’ve recently moved to Kendall County, this exercise will be a great learning tool for you – welcome to the neighborhood.

Lastly, reach out to the team at the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country. Each year, the Community Foundation grants millions of dollars to local nonprofits, and the team will know which nonprofits are addressing the issues you care about.

On average, the Foundation grants $100,000 per week and annually supports over 175 nonprofits.

To be sure, there is good work going on all over the country and around the world; however, Boerne-area organizations helping right here at home also need your support. They improve the quality of life for all of us, and we should definitely show our thanks.

Austin Dickson is chief executive officer of the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, which works with donors and supports nonprofits in Kendall County. Contact him at: austin@ communityfoundation. net.