The Gift of Time

Deep down, most of us would really like to give and help others out. We all know that many people and organizations are struggling and deserve a boost. However, giving can be very challenging.  Usually the biggest challenge to giving is finding the necessary resources. Another challenge to giving is knowing who really needs the gift? These aren't easy challenges to resolve, but I encourage you to look long and hard for solutions. It will be worth your while because giving makes most people feel so good for so long.

Once you have researched and discovered a person or organization that you would like to help, you may still face the challenge of not having any extra money to give. Don’t give up now -- here is a fabulous idea to consider-- give the gift of time. Many people and organizations can’t afford to pay workers to meet all of their needs. That’s where you can help.

For example a single mom may need a babysitter to go for a job interview, or a car repair or other very productive tasks. In most cases she can’t afford the extra expense of a baby sitter. Giving your time can be a vital piece to her success or maybe even her survival.

How about your school - any school! I know they need money, but you can bet they could use your time also.

Here at Extra Attic Richmond Self Storage we see an example of how time can turn into millions of dollars. One of our long time Extra Attic team members has committed a tremendous amount of time to his college - The College of William and Mary. He was an integral part of a fundraising idea for the football team (which he played for). Then, he gave many hours of his time over the next 20 years to ensure its success.

The name of the idea is HEYFARL - Hundred Each Year For A Rising Letterman, and it has raised over $1.25 million for the William and Mary football team since its inception in 1994. HEYFARL contributors are mostly former W&M football players and the contributions go to deserving W&M walk - on football players who have earned scholarships from their previous year’s performance. WOW! You never know what can happen.

These are just a few examples of giving the gift of time. I’m guessing many more ideas have crossed your mind since you started reading this. So when you are at your wit’s end trying to manage your own resources and there is nothing left to give - think hard about giving the gift of time. It will be worth it. Seeing those beautiful smiles will make your day - maybe even your year!

Do you give the gift of time? Share with us, we'd love to hear about it!