Stretch Your Giving Impact: Smart Giving as a Year-Round Habit

At REACH, we know that giving isn’t just about grand gestures, but more so it is about the impact our actions can have throughout our community. Even small contributions, when made thoughtfully, can make a big impact. For those of you that are able and in the giving spirit, here are some practical tips to help you give back year-round without stretching your budget:

Leveraging Charitable Tax Strategies

Giving, when done right, can be one of the best ways to assist your community without breaking the bank.

Donations to qualified nonprofits or charitable organizations may be tax deductible, which can help you reduce your taxable income while giving to the causes you care about. For the upcoming year (2026) there are some changes coming to the tax deduction landscape that will now give you access to up to $1,000 of above-the-line deductions (without itemizing) for charitable cash contributions to qualified organizations. Consider keeping a record of your donations throughout the year and consulting with a tax professional to maximize your benefits.

Make the most of Employer Match Programs

Many Employers offer matching gift programs for charitable contributions which can double or even triple your giving. Check with your HR department to see if your workplace participates in a matching plan for donations. For those with access this can drastically increase the impact of your giving to your community.

Create a Budget Friendly Giving Plan

Giving of any amount is one of the most wholesome activities we get to enjoy. While we are not always guaranteed to be able to give, setting aside $10 a week adds up fast and can help you spread out contributions and make them more manageable within a budget.

Supporting Local Initiatives

Giving doesn’t have to be monetary. Consider supporting local causes or small community projects. You can help neighbors, local schools, or community organizations thrive by giving your time, assistance, or

skills as a volunteer. These acts of generosity can be even more personal than money alone.

Remember, giving back doesn’t require a huge budget, what matters is intention and consistency. Small acts of generosity can create significant change in our community. REACH thanks you for being part of this movement and for helping us create stronger, more inclusive communities, one small act at a time.

Written by Mason Jasuta

REACH Advisor and Staff Accountant at Chad Dodge CPA, LLC