Give Local starts next Monday (or yesterday)

Zach Davis-Price

I recently attended a gala where a handful of people donated $100,000 each during a paddle raise and was struck by the generosity of our community.

Not everyone in our area can give large sums of money, but a few here have such resources.

For the rest of us who haven’t reached the $100,000 donor level yet, there are opportunities to do immense good in our community. Regardless of your tax bracket, I invite you to consider Give Local, the annual campaign from the Community Foundation of South Puget Sound.

Give Local is a unique opportunity for nearly any resident of Lewis, Mason or Thurston County to make a meaningful difference.

This annual online giving event, which officially runs from November 11 to 22 allows people to donate directly to local nonprofits, supporting causes that are making a real impact in the region.   [Editor's Note: The campaign is actually live now, but in its "early giving" quiet period, giving donors a chance to jump-start the campaign and support their chosen causes before the official launch.]

Give Local is an easy, accessible way for individuals to contribute to local organizations focused on a wide range of critical community needs.

Since its inception in 2017, the campaign has raised over $3.9 million, funding programs that provide everything from meals and shelter to books, music, art, environmental conservation efforts and even The JOLT News Organization. 

Give Local is a celebration of the generosity of people in our communities.  It’s a time for people to come together and support the causes they care about, knowing that their contributions will directly benefit their neighbors and local organizations. 

You might see lots of social media posts and buzz about the campaign. Each of the 143 participating nonprofits has its page on the Give Local website, where donors can learn about their missions and make secure online contributions.

Donors can also support multiple organizations by filling an online "shopping cart" with donations, making the process even easier. 

In 2023, the campaign raised an impressive $938,938, demonstrating the community’s commitment to improving lives through philanthropy.

Whether you live in South Puget Sound or anywhere across the country, you can participate in Give Local and help strengthen the region. 

A personal suggestion

Every day, The JOLT shares essential local news. Every month, on behalf of The JOLT, I get to share the work of area nonprofits. This month we ask you to share in our work as a donor. Here is how you can support The JOLT: 

• Donate: Visit The JOLT's Give Local page and contribute.  

• Spread the Word: Share this article with friends, family, and colleagues to encourage others to support The JOLT's work.  

Every dollar raised through Give Local goes directly to nonprofits of your choice. Thanks to generous sponsors, the Community Foundation covers platform fees, ensuring 100% of your donation reaches its intended cause.

For those who itemize their tax deductions, donations made to any of these organizations are tax-deductible, providing a financial benefit for donors as well. I can also assure you that $0 of the total donations will go to me personally as I am a volunteer contributor.

We do hope you will consider us as you Give Local.  

Zach Davis-Price is a man of many interests, especially the workings and activities of local nonprofit organizations and volunteer programs. He lives in Tumwater. Send him a note at zach@theJOLTnews.com.