Monthly Giving: A Small Action with a Big Impact

The world feels a little wild right now. Public employees are striking (we stand with you Alberta teachers), while other workers across the country are in negotiations of their own, the economy feels uncertain, and the news can be stressful. It’s a lot to take in.

But for some people, life is still steady. Jobs are secure, retirement savings are growing, and maybe that mortgage is finally starting to shrink (does anyone ever really pay it off?!).

If that sounds like you, we want to invite you to do something small that makes a big difference.

Find Your Favourite Charity

Even if it takes some research, become a monthly donor. Monthly donors are so important to charities, especially small to mid-size organizations that don’t have reliable, consistent funding. Every month can feel uncertain:

• How will the bills be paid?
• Will there be enough to keep the lights on, pay staff, and still deliver the programs people count on?

Why Monthly Giving Matters

Many Canadian charities face rising costs just like families do: rent, supplies, insurance, and technology all cost more every year. At the same time, government grants are harder to get, and one-time donations can go up and down with the economy. It’s a stressful balance that makes planning ahead almost impossible.

Charities that know they have a group of monthly donors, with a consistent amount of revenue coming in each month, can breathe, plan, and most importantly, provide more help for the people and communities who need it most.

The Role of Fundraising

Fundraising is a crucial part of any not for profit. It’s not surprising we think it’s an essential role in all charities. Bias aside, the less time a fundraiser has to focus on “keeping the lights on,” the more opportunity an organization has to:

• Improve the way they already do things
• Help more people
• Try new things: a new program, a new service, or a new way to approach an old problem

Innovation is a risk that requires financial security.

Your Gift Makes a Difference

You don’t have to give a large amount to make a big impact. Whether it’s $5 a month or $100, what matters most is the consistency. Your monthly gift says:

“I believe in what you’re doing, and I want to help you keep going.”

Allowing an organization to grow their monthly giving program and add you to their inner circle has a benefit far beyond the financial. Your gift gives these charities something priceless: stability.

Though please, do not underestimate the value of your financial gift. Your contribution has the power to:

• Keep programs running
• Spark innovation
• Give hope to the people who rely on these services

How to Get Started

If you already have a favourite charity, reach out and ask about joining their monthly giving program. If you don’t, take some time to find one that speaks to your interests and passions.

According to the latest data released in March 2024, there are 85,518 registered charities in Canada, and 78% of those raise less than $500,000 each year.

And if you would like suggestions on some great small and mid-sized not for profits to support, please reach out, we are ready and willing to help!

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller

November 2025 – Deanna Carruthers