101 ways (almost) anyone can give back

Much of the focus in philanthropy is on big gifts and givers, from the Omidyars, to the Gates and Warren Buffett. But most of us don't have a couple of million lying around to give. Does that mean that we should do nothing and wait around for others to build the world we want? Not only does that remove our power, voice and responsibility, it also makes the task of changing the world impossible. The truth is they can't do it alone. Because it's not only about money. It's also about being a socially responsible person. It's about caring about what you care about (because maybe no one will ever donate a million dollars to your local animal shelter) and its about inspiring those around you to do what they can too. Here are ten ideas for giving back.

1. Round up: Instead of a book club, form a giving circle with friends. Fund your giving with the money you would normally spend on the book. If your circle has 10 members, and you each put $10 in your fund, you have $100/month to give to a cause you care about. You can talk about which charities you care about & which social problems need help. You can also get to know your friends on a different level. Yes, you can still drink wine and talk about Jersey Shore.

2. Be a good neighbor: Take an elderly neighbor to the grocery store with you or offer to pick up a couple of things. Social service agencies can't always replace an organic human connection.

3. Purge!: Clean out your closet and donate to charity. It's not rocket science, but when was the last time you actually did it?

4. Can-do: Drop a can (or two) in the box at the grocery store for your local food pantry. Put it on your list so after you check out you are not trying to decide between giving and being two cans short for your own meals.

5. Everybody clean up: The song that kids sing when picking up their toys comes to mind. Don't know it? Ask any mom. If the kids can do it, so can we. Next time you see trash when you are walking, pick up one piece and throw it in the trash can. See, that didn't hurt a bit.

6. Cha-ching!: Instead of letting it sit around for years, donate the contents of your change jar to charity. It's money, people! Let it do something.

7. Re-gift: The next time you have a party that guests might bring a gift to - birthday, anniversary, or even a dinner party, include on the invitation the following line,"In lieu of gifts, please make a donation to X charity." You can have as much fun with this as you want. Try, "Nancy has way too much stuff, so please, if you value our friendship and would like to see me continue to have space in our closet, don't bring any gifts. You can, however, make a donation to X." How about, "Don't bring wine, last time that happened I drank it all! If you want, bring 10 bucks and we'll donate it to charity."

8. FUN-draiser: Throw your own. Who says they have to be formal and expensive? Sell tickets to an "event" in your own back yard. Friends will be glad to come and contribute. You might even see if there is a way to include someone or something from your charity into the event.

9. The Dunk Tank Effect: Who wouldn't pay $5 to see their boss take it in the face with a Boston Cream Pie? You just need a good sport and a little marketing.

10. Not-so-Celebrity Auction: Ok, no one is going to pay $100,000 for a dress you wore. But do you have something people would pay for? Maybe it's the expertise you've gained at your job. It could be sharing what you know about something you love. Maybe it's your original artwork. Get creative.

It's all about creativity, consciousness, and connection. More ideas to come!