To the editor:

As the holidays approach, we think of friends, family and those less fortunate than ourselves. Through experience, we’ve learned it’s more rewarding to give than to receive.

However, our local nonprofit organizations cannot give to those in need unless we receive support from our greater community.

During these difficult economic times, we offer tips on how donors can make a greater impact this holiday season, particularly in a smaller community such as ours that is reliant on local funding. The need for food, shelter and services is on the increase and magnified during the holidays. Now is the time to put great consideration into your charitable giving.

Here are four tips that can help individuals, families and giving groups navigate the holiday giving season:

Give locally to organizations with relationships in the community. While large-scale efforts are important, today’s financial crisis requires renewed commitment to the immediate needs of our community. No one knows the impact of the current economic crisis on a community better than the organizations that work here. Services are in high demand, and budgets are dependent on local/annual support.

Get to know the organization through a visit or volunteering. Learn about the needs of the community and become informed about the nonprofit organization to determine if it’s reaching people in need, providing quality services and operating effectively. Support efforts to partner, coordinate and share resources.

Focus your giving. This may be the year to focus on just one or two issues or one or two community organizations. By clarifying your desires for giving, you can better match a small gift with the organization most suited to make a difference on the issue closest to your heart or most critical to the well-being of your community.

Give more than money. You might consider non-financial gifts you could share with a nonprofit group. Offering your expertise and volunteering specialized skills can be an everlasting gift. Expertise in accounting, planning, graphic arts, etc., may be just the thing to strengthen a service organization. Just ask what kinds of help — beyond or in addition to money — would be most helpful.

We encourage you to visit the “Giving Tree” at the Bayview Cash Store to make a donation to local nonprofits and take home a holiday ornament symbolizing your commitment and investment in our community. You may also make a donation on behalf of someone special and give them an ornament as a token of our appreciation.

We wish you a very happy holiday season, and we thank you for your support.

THE SOUTH WHIDBEY HELP NETWORK

Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Friend of Friends Medical Support Fund, Good Cheer, Helping Hand, Island County Readiness to Learn Foundation, Saratoga Community Housing, Senior Services of Island County, South Whidbey Commons, South Whidbey Youth Connection, St. Hubert’s Outreach and Whidbey Island Share a Home