My husband and I think it's really important to give money to causes that are important to us. In general we support our local library, the public radio and television stations, and our public schools. In the past, I have participated in organizations who raise money for the American Cancer Society, and other causes. When you give away part of your income, what do you give to? Do you give on a regular basis?

Church is the first and largest part of our giving. We also raise money and donate to the ALS association as my Mother has ALS. I always support Breast Cancer research... afterall, as a woman with breasts... it matters. There are always school and sport fundraisers and we usually end up spending more than intended. We try to give time as much as possible... whether it is a couple hours at the school or church or with a community event. Time is valuable. Also, when my husband volunteers for non-profits, his work pays that non-profit $10 an hour. So, coaching will raise a couple thousand for the school each season, etc... They also have a matching program so when we donate to UofO Alum among others, they match our gift up to 5k a year. This really makes your money do more good! We are blessed that he works for a company who places high value on family and community.

We give the most money at church along with giving time toward various missions that we feel called to. After that, I would say it's Girl Scouts with large investments of time and money. Other than that, we give here and there to other things that come up during the year - just in smaller amounts.

We donate money to charities involving food, clothing, and shelter. It really helps to narrow the focus of our giving that way. We also give to our church and occasionally we give a bit to other causes like sponsoring a friend in a charity race or something. We exchange donations at Christmastime with several members of our family on both sides. As someone who is gift-challenged, I love it. Always fits and no shipping fees!