Turn Your Living Space Into A Giving Space

Everyday, we stumble into the world to work, play, eat, and everything in between. But, no matter how much fun we have in the streets, there’s really is no place like home. On most days, there is no place that I’d rather be than my house. Yesterday, I was sitting around trying to think of little habits that I could introduce in order to make my household a giving household.

Being a better person and committing to a charitable lifestyle means that I need to look for opportunities to do good in most aspects of my life. I created a list of 8 small yet effective ways that to help turn my “living space into a giving space.”

1. Place a piggy bank on your bedroom dresser and empty your loose change on a daily basis. At the end of the month, donate the funds to your favorite charity.

2. Give back to the environment. Throw those water/wine bottles and pop cans in a bag, and recycle when it’s full.

3. Whenever you purchase a new item of clothing, automatically select something in your closet to give away. Give the items away on a monthly basis or at the start of a new season.

4. Decorate your home with fair trade items or those that support artisans in developing countries. This roundup of beautiful pillows is a great place to begin your search.

5. The lotion that you never opened? The makeup samples still in the package? Gather those things and give to a local women’s shelter. You’d be surprised how new perfume or lipstick can help lift spirits of women going through difficult times.

6. Next time that you host a get-together, ask your guests to bring a canned good. Then, take the items to a food bank in your area.

7. Incorporate awards, “Thank You” letters, and other “gifts” from charities into the decor of your home. Last year, a 5-year old sweetheart made me a card after I volunteered at a community center. That beautiful piece proudly hangs on my fridge. It always makes me smile and reminds me of our fun time together!

8. Can’t get enough of fresh flowers, fruits, and veggies? Purchase your goods from a community garden or co-op. Your patronage will not only help to support the garden, but also any other programs/services provided.

If you have any ideas to add, drop them in the comments box. I’d love to know what you guys are doing!