The 7 Try This: I want to give back! How do I afford it?
Dec 31, 2025
Michelle Singletary, a personal finance columnist at the Washington Post and author of the Color of Money newsletter, shares valuable insights on charitable giving. She highlights budgeting for generosity, emphasizing the importance of tithing and discipline. Michelle suggests volunteering and getting children involved, along with practical ways to find trustworthy charities. She discusses giving even while managing debt and the significance of creating a sustainable giving plan. Ultimately, she encourages giving from abundance and making a positive impact year-round.
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Use A Percentage Plan
- Consider a structured approach like tithing (10% of income) to impose discipline and ensure consistent giving.
- Treat charitable contributions like any other recurring bill to make them sustainable.
Give What You Can, Even If Small
- If you're in debt, prioritize necessities and creditors, but still include even small charitable amounts if possible.
- If cash is impossible, donate your time instead of money.
Visiting Nursing Homes With A Dog
- As a teenager, Michelle visited nursing homes with her dog to offer companionship to residents.
- She used that early volunteering to normalize service and later required her children to serve too.