Anyone can show charity. Will you?

International Day of Charity was created in 2012 by the United Nations. September 5 was chosen to honor Mother Teresa, a missionary known for her charitable deeds, on the anniversary of her death in 1997. The purpose of this day is to spread awareness, to get people to help and to contribute to others in need.

There are many families locally that need assistance, and anyone can help, either by providing financial assistance or volunteering time to help make the lives of others easier.

Organized charities help others, directing money, aid and support. Some people think they won’t be able to help because they don’t have extra money, but charity is not just about donating money. Even students can donate things like toys, clothes and shoes, just about anything you don’t want but wouldn’t want to waste.

Most people are familiar with charities like the American Red Cross and City of Hope, and some have even participated in the biggest charity event, Race for Life, which raised $60,802,508 in 2013.

There are a lot of local charities that we can assist with, even as students. For example, I volunteered with American Red Cross and installed free smoke detectors for the elderly and those who couldn’t afford them. Also my family and I have always donated to the Ronald McDonald House whenever we went to McDonalds. This charity has helped my family when they needed it the most.

Sometimes charities are not as forthcoming as they should be and much of the donated funds go to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and not to the people who actually need it. A little research goes a long way, and it is worthwhile to check into a charity before donating. This includes a good list of charities you might want to stay away from, especially on International Day of Charity.