Sep 5, 20232 min read

Compassion and Charity: International Day of Charity

“When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.”

― Maya Angelou

"International Day of Charity" was established to empower NGO's all around the world to to help others through volunteer and philanthropic activities.

September 5th was chosen to honor the anniversary of the passing of Mother Teresa.

Mother Teresa, a renowned nun and missionary, was born in Gonxha Bojaxhiu in 1910. In 1928 she went to India, where she devoted herself to helping the destitute. In 1948 she became an Indian citizen and founded the order of Missionaries of Charity in Kolkota (Calcutta) in 1950, which became noted for its work among the poor and the dying in that city.

For over 45 years, Mother Teresa ministered to the poor, sick, orphaned and dying, while guiding the Missionaries of Charity’s expansion, first in India and then in other countries, including hospices and homes for the poorest and homeless.

Interesting Facts about Charity and Giving

Holiday Giving: December is historically the month of the year with the greatest amount of giving recorded.
Australia: More than ⅓ of Australians volunteer and ⅔ donate money which makes Australia the most charitable country on earth.
Women who Give: Women are more likely to help a stranger or volunteer.
Giving Age: The average age in the United States donating to a charity is 62.

How to Celebrate International Day of Charity

Donate Funds to Charity Do some research and volunteer or donate to a charity in your community.
Volunteer Volunteer for a Charity/Non-Profits: Such as cleaning up natural areas, reading books to children, teaching special needs individuals.
Attend a Charity Event Search for an organization that does annual charity events or host an event of your own.