Learn all the benefits of giving back

I have been blessed thoughout my life by others’ generosity. As a result of the impact you have made in my life, this month I want to encourage you to create a strategy for giving consistently.

THE BENEFITS OF GIVING

Having a plan for giving back can reap benefits that are immeasurable, not only for the receiver, but also for the giver. It turns out that people who are kind and compassionate see clear benefits to their well-being and happiness, according to the Mental Health Foundation. They may even live longer. Kindness can also help reduce stress and improve one’s emotional state. (See bit.ly/MHFKindnessMatters .) Additionally, a study published in Science reports that spending more of one’s income on others predicted greater happiness. (See bit.ly/Science1150952 .)

Giving back is a wonderful form of marketing, as well. The Digital Marketing Institute says that corporate social responsibility allows companies to enact positive change. It’s when they decide to do what’s right not only for their bottom line but also to build customer trust. (See bit.ly/Giving9012021 .) When consumers support such a company, they feel they are doing their part.

ALONG FOR THE RIDE

My husband David and I had the chance to not only reap the benefits of a personal giving strategy, but also involve our friends.

We learned in late 2021 about a fundraising cycling event that supports the fight to end human trafficking, a cause near and dear to our hearts. The event, Hope-Ride-for-Freedom, is a 300-mile bike ride from Jacksonville to Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., close to where we live. So… David signed up, and our entire family became involved.

What an experience! David rode with 21 others. Aidan and Allison (our children) and I cheered them on, and helped raise money. A few friends even showed up to cheer. It was a blessing to get to know the riders and watch them ride 100 miles a day in sometimes cold, rainy, and windy conditions, all to help free one more victim of slavery.

I never expected the steady flow of tears we all had as the team completed that last 15-mile stretch escorted by local law enforcement. The fundraising, the accomplishment, the teamwork, and (most of all) the cause are unforgettable. Thanks to all who helped David and I almost reach our goal of $10,000. I cannot wait to get started on the 2023 event, and we welcome you to join us.

PLAN YOUR APPROACH

Begin 2022 by taking an organized and planned approach to do what you do already. Choose a cause, or a few, and get everyone involved: your patients, your team, your family, and friends. Set goals for yourself, and work toward achieving them. In this case, it might even get you in better physical shape, too. OM

Email: april.jasper@pentavisionmedia.com

Twitter: @DrAprilJasper

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