How to give good

It’s that time of year again when we make donations because the tax deduction will be forthcoming sooner rather than later. Every year I post my advice on how to make the most of your charitable giving… so buckle up. Here are my top 7 giving tips and then my top 7 charities list for 2023.

Why so stingy? The Neuroscience of generosity

Generosity is an interesting beast. As an ex-charity CEO, I have seen it expressed in many different ways. The best kind of generosity comes with warmth and good old NSA – no strings attached. This kind of generosity is glorious to witness and is the backbone of charity work all over the world. The worst kind smacks you over the head with their husband’s cheque book.

Run for your life

Have you ever wondered why African nations have the best middle and long distance runners on earth? Ethiopians and Kenyans have high altitude on their side with lungs developed from the day they are born to suck every last bit of oxygen from the air. So when they run at sea level, the higher oxygen levels turbocharge their blood supply like jet fuel. But why is running such a popular and prestigious sport all over Africa?

How to build a volunteer army

Volunteers are the backbone of the not-for-profit sector. What other industry can build a workforce on free, willing labour? So listen up charities, stop yer whinging about being poor and fist pump the air because you have access to the most cost effective and passionate army in the universe! Here are my tips for how to build the best volunteer team. I’ve learned the knack over 20 years of building teams and working with volunteers.