Philanthropy: 5 Worthy Organizations Who Need Your Help!

These organizations need you!  And, hey, just before the end of 2014, which means you can write them off your taxes! These 5 groups, foundations, organizations, are always on my Giving List, and for very good reason!

1.  Marine Megafauna Foundation: “MMF specifically focuses on the research and conservation of threatened marine megafauna species. ‘Marine Megafauna’ are large marine species such as sharks, rays, marine mammals and turtles. These animals are key components of marine ecosystems but, as they are long-lived and have low reproductive rates, their populations are usually the first to be reduced by human pressures. Fortunately, they are also among the most charismatic animals on the planet and engender a high degree of public interest in their biology and conservation, making them useful ambassadors for the whole marine environment”. Adopt a Manta Ray or a Whale Shark! Or give in general, for their research. My favorite way to give? Participate in one of their many “expeditions” and do citizen science!  I went to Ecuador this year with MMF and it was such a privilege to participate in their Manta Ray Research!  Go here to donate! Join me in becoming a MMF Guardian, or adopt/sponsor an animal…there are many ways to support this group!  

2.  Give to a Women’s Shelter. I give yearly to Genesis Women’s Shelter in Dallas, Tx. Help support quality safety and support to battered women and their children, whatever your location! There are shelters everywhere who need your help.

3.  University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center’s Heart and Lung Transplant Clinic. Our family certainly supports this group of world renowned Doctors and Nurses. My husband benefited from their expertise and world class facilities…he had a double lung transplant in September 2013. They saved his life. I cannot say enough about how incredible UT Southwestern is, they are certainly deserving of giving to support their research.

4.  UN World Food Progam:  From projects around the world to supporting school lunch programs, the UN’s WFP is attempting to eliminate hunger for the world’s children. A very worthy cause and a very hard fight. We can all help!

5.  World Wildlife Fund: WWF works for conservation of our Endangered Species. Did you know we are down to 5 Rare White Rhinos in the entire world? Help fight extinction for these animals…which is being caused by humans. The list goes on and on…there are many people out there who are dedicated to saving lives, human and non-human.  Give a little and get a tax break….but mostly give because only Giving (in whatever form you can or want) will change the world.