Today is #Giving Tuesday … it is a time to recognize the opportunity you have to give back to the organizations and entities that give back to our communities all the time.

In an e-message from Guidestar.org, the following “blog post from our friend Kate at iOnPoverty.tv that we decided to share it with all of you. We couldn’t agree with her more. There are a lot of issues—big and small—that people are working every day to solve. As an individual, the best approach may be to pick one or two causes and care passionately and deeply about them.”

Today, remember to think about all of the organizations that give back to Columbia. Think about contributing your time, your energy, your ideas or your money to one of the local not-for-profit organizations or entities that enrich the community by providing services and opportunities for its citizens.

“There are so many ways to make a change in this world that it’s difficult to know where to begin.

“Even if you have a cause you’re passionate about, like eradicating hunger, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by potential ways you can help.

“Do you give money or food to the homeless man you walk by on the way to work every day?

“Do you go and volunteer at your local food bank?

“Do you start your own organization to help your community?

“Do you donate money to a national organization?

“And if you do decide to donate money, how can you ensure that your contribution is being used as fully as possible to help the people you intend it to go to?

 “The last question, at least, is easily answered. You can turn to GuideStar.”