At the beginning of this year, the US Government decided to let us take our charitable donations to Haiti count towards last years tax deductions.  This is their way of giving you an incentive to donate. I want to take a slightly different approach. I think the majority of us have had to deal with tough economic times this past year or two. Maybe not everyone out there can donate money…and that is okay. Have you ever thought about your other options? Here are some ideas I have:

• Donate your time – While this is not tax deductible, it will still make you feel good. Especially if you are currently unemployed, you probably have more free time on your hands. While you are not looking for a new job, think about donating your time at a local charity or church. I know they need volunteers as much as money.
• Donate a clunker – My husband and I actually did this several years ago. This is tax deductible, but make sure you get all the proper paperwork. The IRS has very strict guidelines these days on donating a vehicle and what you can take on your tax return.
• Pay it forward – I am sure you have all heard the stories about people paying for the person behind them at Starbucks. Think about helping someone out without expecting anything in return. I don’t know about you, but I am a believer in Karma. I know someday, it will come back to me.
• Do something nice for no reason at all – One of my favorite commercials right now has to be an insurance one where they show the gentleman helping a man get up after falling on the sidewalk or the guy picking up the toy for the little baby in a stroller. If an opportunity arises to do something nice, do it!
• Make someone smile – Just make someone smile. If you smile at someone walking down the street, it is really hard for them not to smile back. You may just turn their day around.

My whole point is when you do nice things, nice things happen. Go make someone smile today!