I was raised in a charitable family. We were involved in the community many ways - not entirely financially. I can recall things like stuffing envelopes for this and that cause; volunteering time for this function or that; and walking the neighbourhood canvassing for one or more charities. It was just the normal I grew up with. Thus it is easier to do so now that I am an adult and I carried on what has become a tradition with my own children.

I cannot work owing to incredible anxiety yet I find it relatively easy to donate my time and efforts to various organisations. Perhaps that comes from a need to contribute. Perhaps volunteering is easier to partake in than employment as I have the freedom to leave, etc. Regardless, it is a way to do something that matters - and just as importantly it occupies some of my all too much free time.

Remember that doing your bit need not cost you money. That which costs you your time is often the most fullfilling.