The reasons for giving are different for everyone. Perhaps it is a family tradition in your household or maybe you are personally determined to make a positive impact in the world. Maybe it’s both. The truth is, most people have more than one influence motivating them to give. Whatever your reason, breaking down the psychology behind giving can help you understand why you might be motivated to donate to charity and which cause is worthy of your time.
Why People Donate to Charity
Studies in behavioral science show that people typically give money to charities because their spirit of goodwill is in full swing. However, there are other reasons to give that span each end of the altruism spectrum. Here are four common reasons why people choose to donate to charity.
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Personal Connection to a Cause
A personal experience or intimate connection to a specific cause can spark life-long contributions from donors. For example, maybe a donor gives to a homeless shelter because they experienced similar hardship at some point in their life and are empathic to the cause, or perhaps they donate to cancer research because they lost a loved one to the disease. Such passionate advocates will not only give from their wallet, but also devote their time to spreading the good word about the charity closest to their heart.
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Self-served Giving
Driven by egoism, some people donate to receive a personal benefit, show off their wealth, or impress others on social media. However, not all displays of egoism are rooted in narcissism. That is because people generally want to feel good about themselves. Giving to those who are less fortunate will lead to warm, fuzzy feelings and a satisfying sense of pride in serving others, and that’s not a bad thing at all.
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Tax Write-off
Some donors are incentivized by the financial benefit of giving, like the money-saving tax breaks offered in exchange for giving to a 501(c)(3) public charity.At the end of the year, donors will receive a taxable receipt of their charitable deductions, which they will include when they file their tax returns. Donors in the 15% tax bracket, for instance, will save 15% of the tax on a $100 donation. Such tax breaks can be quite motivating.
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Kindness of Their Hearts
Sometimes people give just to give. Truly altruistic donors donate to charity because they want to help people in need. Whether they’re doing their civil duty to fight social inequality because of their moral values or they’re practicing their religious beliefs through tithes and offerings, kind-hearted donors are committed to charitable giving simply because it’s the right thing to do.
Choose Charity by Giving to The Mustard Seed
The mission of The Mustard Seed of Central Florida Furniture and Clothing Bank is to help rebuild the lives of families and individuals who have suffered disaster or personal tragedy by providing household furnishings and clothing while being environmentally responsible to our community.
Consider donating your funds, furniture, or time by calling us today at (407) 875-2040.
