Giving to charity in a meaningful way is deeply personal. 
It requires consideration of how you feel – really feel – about   giving to charity, what your motives are and the outcomes you hope to achieve.  While accountants and attorneys are enthusiastic about the tax advantages of contributing to nonprofit organizations, what we have found is that donors are just as likely to cite numerous other, more personal reasons to contribute, not the least of which is the pleasure they derive from giving.  

Among the main reasons people donate: 
 

Paying Back:  Many donors who have enjoyed success in their lives feel they should share their good fortune, often with those organizations and institutions that were instrumental in their success.   People who attended a university where their degrees led to careers and contacts may be inclined to give back to their alma mater.  Likewise, a religious institution that provided support in difficult times is often remembered.  You may feel an emotional tug toward another type of organization, such as a social service organization or hospital.  Indeed, you may already know that the satisfaction from such gifts is particularly meaningful.