Does clutter stress you out? Giving away just a few items can declutter your space, connect you with your community, and uplift your spirit on National Give Something Away Day (July 15).
Origin of National Give Something Away Day
National Give Something Away Day, created by Linda Eaton Hall-Fulcher in 2015, was established to promote generosity and encourage people to give back to their communities. It’s a day dedicated to sharing and spreading kindness by donating items or giving away things you no longer need.
Benefits of Giving
Generosity has been linked to increased levels of happiness and well-being. Giving to community programs you believe in can help you feel more connected. When you give to people you know, it can strengthen your relationships with them.
This is good news for those of us who could stand to do a bit of decluttering.
But it’s not just good for you, it’s good for others as well.
Generosity from others reinforces the feeling of being cared for and supported. It can lift spirits and provide hope, especially in challenging times,.
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Donation Tips for People with ADHD
- Start Small: You don’t have to go through your entire house! Start with a single box in a single room.
- Create a Donation Station: Set up a specific area in your home where you can place items to donate. This can help you visually see your progress and stay motivated.
- Use Timers: Allocate a certain amount of time each day or week to go through items to donate. Using a timer can help you stay focused and prevent procrastination.
- Make Lists: Keep a running list of items you want to donate or categories your chosen donation centers will take.
- Find an Accountability Partner: Partner with a friend or family member to help you stay on track. You can also challenge each other to make donations.
How to Choose Items to Give Away
- Usefulness: Consider whether you have used the item in the past year. If not, it might be time to donate it.
- Emotional Attachment: Ask, “Does this item make me happy or is it a burden?” Keep only those items that bring you joy or serve a purpose.
- Condition of Items: Donate items that are still in good condition and can be useful to others. Please don’t make other people throw away your trash!
Where to Donate
Many communities have Goodwill and Salvation Army. You can also look for local charities and thrift stores. Your community may have food pantries or organizations that accept specific types of donations. Always pay attention to specific donation requirements, especially items they don’t accept.
Many shelters and community centers appreciate donations of clothing, unused toiletries, and other essentials like blankets. Always check to see what they need.
Get your free donation checklist:
You can also search online for specific donation needs or groups in your community. I have found artist workshop spaces that accept all kinds of arts and crafts supplies, local schools and homeschool groups that accept books and school supplies, and animal rescue shelters that accept old towels and blankets.
I personally like to use clothing and book drop bins because they don’t require much planning. They are available 24 hours a day so you can use them when it’s convenient for you.
Plan Your Donation Drop-Off
Schedule a time to drop off your donations when you’re least likely to be rushed. And don’t forget to check their drop-off hours. I have had to make extra trips because I forgot to check when a thrift store is open.
Add the drop-off to your calendar as an appointment to ensure you don’t forget. Put your donations near the door or in your car to help you remember to take items with you.
Get Started
Donations are important for you and your community! Every little bit helps someone in need.
And those who receive help are often inspired to give back and help others in return, furthering the cycle of generosity.
Don’t forget to download your free checklist to guide you through the donation process.
If you have a great tip for making donations, please share it in the comments.