There is more of a need than ever to help our fellow human beings, who are struggling just to get by.

1. GIVING BACK
by Timothy P. Huggins

2. We live in a very affluent society. For those among us who have steady
jobs, comfortable homes, and food on the table, it is easy to ignore the
poverty that surrounds us, even in the world’s richest country. With the
financial crisis in the United States, the government is cutting
programs that help struggling families. At the same time, middle-class
adults who typically support charities are facing reduced income, and
many have cut back their charitable giving. Because of this, there is
more of a need than ever to help our fellow human beings, who are
struggling just to get by. It seems impossible that in a country as rich as
we are, we still have homeless people sleeping against the bricks of a
$50 million brownstone along Central Park.

3. Even when my family faces financial hardship, I try to
find ways to give. Regardless of how trying any personal
financial difficulties may feel, compared to so many in
the world, my life is easy. I do not have to fight to keep
a roof over my head or food on my table, but as long as
someone else has to and I have the capacity to help, it
is my responsibility to do so. I know how blessed I am
that I have my life.

4. Some of the charities I choose to support include
Modest Needs Foundation, a web-based philanthropic
organization that matches donors with people who
have financial emergencies; Trocaire, the giving arm of
the St. Patrick’s Church that helps families in need; and
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

5. About the Author: Timothy P. Higgins grew up in New
York City. He participates in Team for Kids and Race
with Purpose, and donates to a number of charities
including Red Cross, Coalition for the Homeless, and
the 9/11 Fund.