Why I Donate

By Jennifer Judson

"Just then he looked up and saw the rich people dropping offerings in the collection plate. Then he saw a poor widow put in two pennies. He said, 'The plain truth is that this widow has given by far the largest offering today. All these others made offerings that they'll never miss; she gave extravagantly what she couldn't afford—she gave her all!'"
Luke 21:2-4 The Message (MSG)

The story of the widow's mite is meaningful to me. What I see in Jesus' observation is that what is offered should be a sacrifice—more than I can afford to give—enough that it hurts. That's where my heart should be as a giver.

Although I'm neither rich nor poor, I know what I can give makes a real impact when combined with other smaller donations. Even $10 can fund a lot of smiles.

There are many good causes. I choose those that directly impact people—specifically those who are hurting or powerless. It matters to me that the charities are good stewards of the resources they are given and accountable to a board. I shy away from organizations that receive government funding because I know more of their budgets go to administration expenses.

After working with DaySpring Villa for several years I've seen firsthand the quality of care DSV offers to women and their children. The time and resources they pour into these women to help them become independent increase the chance they will never again be victims of abuse.

Since 2012, DSV has extended donors an opportunity to "Support Our Guests." For $102.71, I could buy a single day of food and services for the women and children there. I did so in memorial to my sister. It felt tangible to know I'd met specific needs for an entire day.

Recently I stepped up to monthly giving; it's easy through the DSV website. My giving tended to occur at the year-end along with Christmas expenditures, burdening my budget. Monthly giving online is a more reliable resource for DSV and it helps me to spread my giving out over the full year.

Why do I donate to DaySpring Villa? Because it's money well sacrificed for women and children to discover their value as unique and precious children of God.