It's Time to Give Back

By Helen MacKinnon, Founder, Los Angeles Giving Circle

Around the world, the entire non-profit landscape is evolving very quickly, with much government support —on which many philanthropic organizations depend—decreasing if not disappearing entirely.  For many smaller local organizations, which in turn depend on “trickle-down dollars”, these changes will threaten their very existence.

Even though I have lived in LA for decades, I was unaware of many local non-profit organizations. They’re under the radar and yet have to compete with national groups like the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army for philanthropic dollars. There are so many small, local non-profits that do excellent (and much-needed) work. I encourage you to seek out one that speaks to you. “Think globally but act locally” has even greater relevance in these times.

I have personally found immense joy and satisfaction in serving my community in a way that I couldn't do in my professional life running a for-profit company. As the child of Holocaust survivors, I have always known that it was incumbent upon me to give back —I just didn’t know when or how.  For me, the search for that “when or how” was enlightening, educational, and inspiring. 

The bottom line is that it’s important to just do something! Though some may say there is never enough money, this is not true—anyone reading this has enough. No matter what your cause or passion, it's time to devote (at least part of) yourself to something bigger than making more money. You will be surprised at how great it makes you feel! 😊

I founded the non-profit Los Angeles Giving Circle (LAGC) in 2010 to support underserved women and girls in LA. Only 2% of philanthropic dollars go to women’s causes —and in these uncertain times, these funds are sure to get cut.

So, whatever you want to contribute or wherever you want to volunteer —just do it!