The Gift of Giving

There are plenty of ways to give from the heart and help the less privileged without writing a cheque to a charity:

1. Fund-raising parties. Anyone can hold a fund-raiser. Throw a party, charge your friends admission , and donate the proceeds to the charity of your choice. Link the party's theme to the cause, such as having an animal costume party to help a wildlife charity.
2. Donate direct. Some groups accept specific goods, such as used books for hospital libraries. Before you ditch any unwanted possesions, check around for charities that might need them.
3. Dive into conversation. Scuba divers, snorkellers or others interested in the ocean can use their pastime to help conserve coral reefs. The Reef Check Foundation trains divers from over 50 countries, including Philippines and Malaysia, to conduct underwater surveys in their area for an annual report on the state of the world's reefs.
4. Try retail charity. When buying giftd for friend and family, pick up an extra toy or other item and donate it into charity on their behalf. You can also seek out charity bazaars while you shop.