Every year on September 5th, International Day of Charity is observed. This day not only serves to remind us of the importance of charity and philanthropy but also provides an opportunity to promote compassion, cooperation, and social responsibility across all sections of society. Various charitable organizations worldwide work on this day to help people, combat illness, ensure the safety of children, and offer hope to thousands.
The Importance of Charity
Charity is not merely about providing financial assistance. It is a means to reach out to the vulnerable and needy sections of society. It highlights our responsibility to help others. Charity can be in any form – be it time, labor, or money. The objective of International Day of Charity is to spread this awareness and inspire people to help others according to their capabilities.
The Purpose of International Day of Charity
The United Nations (UN) officially declared this day for observance in 2012. Its aim is to promote social responsibility worldwide and to sensitize people towards charitable activities. This day also conveys a message of strengthening the spirit of unity and cooperation in society.
The UN urges all member states, companies, institutions, and individuals to play their role in charity and philanthropy on this day. Activities such as spreading awareness, educating, and collecting donations are encouraged to make it clear how vital charity is for society.
Ways to Celebrate International Day of Charity
There are many ways to participate on International Day of Charity. If you are financially capable, you can donate money to an organization. If you are unable to donate financially, you can contribute your time and effort.
- Connect with Local and International Charity Organizations
Gather information about charity organizations in your area and see if they are organizing any events. - Organize Fundraising Events
If organizations do not have any events planned, you can organize small events yourself, such as a bake sale, fun run, or undertake challenges like a skydive to raise donations. - Spread Education and Awareness
Use social media to make people aware of the importance of charity and philanthropy. - Seek Context and Inspiration
Observing this day in memory of Mother Teresa is also a beautiful way. Watching her biography, her letters, and films made about her provides an opportunity to understand her work and be inspired.
Mother Teresa and Her Contribution
International Day of Charity was chosen because it is the anniversary of Mother Teresa's passing. Mother Teresa, now known as Saint Teresa of Calcutta, was born on August 26, 1910. In 1950, she founded a religious congregation called the Missionaries of Charity. Under this organization, she ran homes, schools, orphanages, counseling centers for children, and mobile clinics for people suffering from tuberculosis, leprosy, and HIV/AIDS.
Her organization not only served the poor and sick but also made significant contributions in the fields of education and mental health. Mother Teresa dedicated her life to serving the poor. For this, she was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979.
Charity Means More Than Just Giving Money
Charity is not solely about giving money. It can be in the form of time, effort, and any kind of assistance. For example, you can sell a craft and donate a portion of the proceeds to charity or raise donations by completing a challenging task.
Furthermore, learning about various charitable organizations focused on mental health, animal welfare, old age homes, orphanages, and health issues is also an important step. Often, smaller organizations cannot run large campaigns, so it is essential to know and support their efforts and contributions.
The Importance of Education and Awareness
The purpose of International Day of Charity is not just to give charity. It is also a day to spread education and awareness. On this day, people can learn about various social problems and needs and promote a spirit of cooperation in society. Educating children and youth about the importance of charity and service helps in building socially responsible future generations.
International Day of Charity is not just a single day; it is a symbol of compassion, service, and humanity. It reminds us that the spirit of cooperation and philanthropy should be a part of everyone's life in society. By drawing inspiration from Mother Teresa's life and her work, we can bring positive change in the world even with our small efforts.
