Why donate globally?

All around the world, there are so many people trying to access basic human needs like clean water, food, clothing, and housing. Thankfully, donors are constantly looking for ways to help and make a difference in struggling communities.

Americans are very charitable, but unfortunately most of these donations are not reaching the world’s most vulnerable. Only 5% of individually donated dollars from the U.S. went to international causes. Additionally, most Americans think the U.S. government gives more than it does. In reality, less than 1% of the U.S. federal budget goes to foreign aid, despite support from most citizens to increase the amount to 10%. By donating to global causes, you can help close this gap.

What may seem like a small amount of money in the U.S. can go a lot further and create a bigger impact in developing countries. A donation of a few dollars can be the difference between whether someone gets medicine or a meal for the day. As a fun bonus, global giving has proven to increase happiness. It’s a win-win for everyone.

Where can I give?

We have compiled a list of the top 11 global causes you can give to this year. These are pressing and interconnected challenges that, if addressed, will save lives and spread joy around the world. You can’t go wrong with a gift to one of these causes.

To make it even easier, we’ve listed the leading charities that are working in each cause. So once you’ve decided on a topic you care about, you’ve got amazing and impactful charity options to explore!

Some prompts to help you think about which cause to support:

• Compelled by innovation? Consider giving to poverty alleviation like economic development.

• Is there something that brings you joy, like sharing laughter with your friends? Help children and families on the move build community together with giving to refugees.

• Moved by a mentor or teacher in your life? Give to education and spread that impact to others.

• Have you personally experienced a disaster? Support disaster relief to bring aid to others experiencing a devastating crisis.

• Ask yourself more questions about what motivates you in your daily life and what inspires you to give. Use those answers to guide you toward a cause that you are passionate about and want to see change in.

1. Clean Water

2. Climate Resilience

3. Disaster Relief

4. Economic Development

5. Education

6. Global Health

7. Human Trafficking

8. Hunger

9. Refugees

10. Social Justice

11. Women & Girls

Here are the top global causes to give to:

Still need help choosing where to give? Take our quiz to help narrow down the perfect causes and charities for you to support.