Have you ever heard of the “warm glow of giving” or maybe experienced it yourself? Loosely defined as a “personal satisfaction for having ‘done the right thing,’” that warm glow shows up when you give up something that is yours for a philanthropic cause and you feel good about it.
Biologically speaking, the warm glow is the activation of the regions of the brain associated with pleasure, connection with other people, and trust. But beyond just a good feeling, the warm and fuzzy feeling you get from helping others is actually good for you too.
It turns out that there are health benefits to both volunteering your time and your treasure. From lowering your blood pressure and stress levels to increased self-esteem, greater happiness and satisfaction, and even a longer life. And like other “highs”, giving is addictive too.
So go ahead and reach out to someone in need, decide which nonprofits you would like to give to, and identify opportunities to give back to your community. Your mental and physical health will thank you – and so will those you help.
Even – or maybe especially – in these challenging times, there are ways that you can give of yourself.
Volunteer
Although you may need to get a little creative, even during a pandemic there is no shortage of ways to become involved with local nonprofit organizations. The City of Dublin has a variety of ways to help, from working throughout the city to running errands for our home-bound neighbors.
Donate
If you are staying in this Valentine’s Day, consider donating the money you would have spent on a fancy dinner to a local organization. Not sure who to give to? The Dublin Has Heart Fund was established to provide money directly to the Dublin-based organizations that are helping the community navigate the COVID-19 pandemic.
Send Community “Love Letters”
The past year has been difficult for many, including those organizations that we all rely upon for help. Take a few moments to send a note of thanks to those organizations who you noticed making a difference during these most challenging times. And if you’re feeling extra loving, send them a donation too.
Reach Out to Those in Need
Contact local nursing homes, soup kitchens, and homeless shelters to see if you are able to send items for their residents and patrons. While in-person visiting may not be an option, you might be surprised by what can still be done to express your love of humanity to those who need it most.
Tidy Up For a Good Cause
Clear that dusty and cluttered closet, attic, or garage space and donate items that will be a treasure to someone else. Welcome Warehouse offers Drop-off days throughout the month to make it even easier!
Celebrate Random Acts of Kindness
Valentine’s Day isn’t the only loving day of the year; in fact, there’s a whole week devoted to it. February 14-20 is Random Acts of Kindness Week. Take time to say hello to someone on the street, pay for someone’s coffee, or reach out to someone who may be feeling isolated.
These are challenging and uncertain times, but Dublin nonprofit organizations, nearly all of whom the Dublin Community Foundation has supported at one time or another, are rising to the occasion. Please consider a donation to help us to continue the good works happening throughout our community.