At this time of year, many of us try to put our own needs aside and focus on the needs of the less fortunate — though it’s often easier said than done. Providing gifts for everyone on our holiday shopping lists and giving a little something to charity can push personal finances to the brink. Especially when you’ve been saving for that gift for your special someone and have been eyeing up the diamond anniversary rings, with such a wide range to choose from, you need to work within a budget! Your partner will love whatever kind you can afford!
If you’re feeling a little over-committed this year but still want to do some good, here are three free and easy ways to make a difference in the lives of folks across the country. The donation amounts may be small, but spread the word among friends, and they can really add up. Best of all, each is done through Facebook, meaning that you won’t need to go anywhere near a shopping mall. Score.
Subaru’s “Share the Love” event: Simply like Subaru on Facebook, visit the company’s “Share the Love” tab, and click a button to donate $1 to one of five charities — American Forests, the ASPCA, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Meals On Wheels Association of America, or the Special Olympics. Subaru will contribute up to $250,000 through this year’s “Share the Love” program, which runs through January 3, 2012.
Lexus’ “Bows for Charity”: Visit Lexus’ Facebook page and hit the “December to Remember” tab on the left-hand side. You’ll see a “Share a Bow” button in the middle of the page. Click it, share it on your wall, and Lexus will donate $5 to Toys for Tots, up to a total of $100,000. This program also runs through January 3.
AT&T’s No-Texting Pledge: You’re no dummy. You know that texting and driving is a dangerous habit. AT&T knows it, too, which is why the company is asking people to pledge not to text and drive. Once you’re logged into Facebook, visit the pledge page, click the “TAKE THE PLEDGE” button sitting smack in the middle of the screen, and AT&T will donate $2 to a nationwide coalition of nonprofits that address problems like driver safety, substance abuse, and bullying.
See, we told you it would be easy — and it’s no strain on the old wallet, either.
From all of us at Gaywheels, have a happy and safe holiday season.