Charities say smallest amount of caring makes a big difference

Local charities have seen a drop in donations this year because of the tight economy. Despite the tough times, hundreds of philanthropists found reason to celebrate today.

It's the 10th annual Utah Philanthropy Day. At the Salt Palace today, a number of people were recognized for their work in the community.

But everyone we talked to said there was still much giving that needed to be done. Community advocate Pamela Atkinson said, "I am seeing so many more people in need this year than I've ever seen before."

As the economic recession takes its toll on the entire country, charitable organizations have found fewer people willing or able to offer help. Chris Sharer, CEO of the Make a Wish Foundation of Utah, said, "I don't think that's probably a surprise. If General Motors is struggling than so is your neighborhood charity."

From programs that benefit children, to those that provide food, all have to adjust and become more efficient.

Jen Parsons-Soran, chairwoman of the Utah Philanthropy Day, said, "Most of them are just trying to buckle down, not spend money that they don't need to spend and do the best they can."

But today the Utah Society of Fundraisers and the Utah Nonprofits Association celebrated 10 years of giving for Utah Philanthropy Day.

About 850 people from different organizations attended a luncheon and presented awards at the Salt Palace Convention Center. Atkinson said, "It recognizes and celebrates the number of people who are volunteering in this state."

And despite the nation's financial trouble, those at today's luncheon hope to send a message: people still care and everyone can help make a difference.

Sharer said, "We celebrate the kindness that is represented here and call it out of the rest of the community."

"The smallest amount of caring can just make a huge difference in somebody's life," Atkinson said.

Donations of time, food, clothing and things like that are all very helpful, but many charities say right now they really need money.

For more on how you can help, click on the related links to the right of the story.

E-mail: wjohnson@ksl.com

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