#yearofgiving

It's November, and I can hardly believe how quickly this year has flown by. As we approach the end of 2024, I find myself reflecting on my New Year’s resolution: to donate to a different organization every month. This resolution has enriched my year in ways I never anticipated. With each month, I've had the chance to learn about, engage with, and support a wide range of causes, from humanitarian aid to animal welfare, environmental preservation to mental health services.

As the eleventh month rolls in, I’m thrilled to share that my November donation goes to Nature Saskatchewan.

Why I Chose Nature Saskatchewan

Nature Saskatchewan is an organization close to my heart for a few reasons. Established in 1949, it has been a pillar of conservation, education, and research in the province for nearly six decades. Their work focuses on observing, documenting, and protecting Saskatchewan’s rich biological diversity. But what I love most is that they don’t just protect nature—they also promote an appreciation for it. Through educational programs and community engagement, Nature Saskatchewan inspires people to gain knowledge and appreciation of the natural world, creating a lasting connection that ultimately motivates them to protect it.

I’ve always believed that conservation begins with awareness. People protect what they love, and they love what they understand. Nature Saskatchewan’s mission to foster both love and understanding of nature aligns perfectly with this belief. I wanted my November donation to go toward an organization that not only guards the environment but also builds that cultural link to nature, which is such a vital part of true conservation.

The Journey So Far

When I set this goal back in January, picking a different organization each month seemed challenging—there are so many deserving causes, and the sheer choice can feel overwhelming. However, it has been incredibly rewarding to dive into a new area each month. I’ve supported local charities, international aid organizations, mental health foundations, and environmental groups. Each donation has brought with it a sense of connection, purpose, and, perhaps most importantly, gratitude.

One of the most fulfilling aspects has been seeing how many different ways people work to make the world a better place. No matter the cause, every organization I’ve supported this year has had one thing in common: a passionate commitment to positive change. Supporting Nature Saskatchewan this month feels like the perfect continuation of this journey, especially as it ties back to a lifelong love of nature and a deep respect for those who work tirelessly to preserve it.

A Reflection on Giving

I’ve found that giving has enriched my life far beyond the monetary value of the donations. Each contribution has opened my eyes to issues I might not have known about and inspired me to engage in discussions, educate myself, and sometimes even volunteer. It’s easy to feel disconnected from the problems we don’t see up close, but committing to support different causes regularly has grounded me in the understanding that we’re all part of a much bigger community, and every little bit we do helps.

If anyone reading this has considered a similar goal for next year, I wholeheartedly recommend it. Donating monthly has turned out to be not just a financial commitment but also a personal journey of learning and compassion. It’s reminded me that we all have a part to play, and even small contributions add up to something meaningful when done consistently.

Looking Ahead to December and Beyond

With only one month left to complete my year of giving, I’m already thinking about how to wrap up this resolution in a way that feels just as fulfilling as each month so far. Perhaps I’ll choose an organization focused on holiday support for families in need, or maybe something to help communities affected by climate change. I also find myself thinking about how I can continue to support the causes I’ve come across this year on a longer-term basis.

As the holiday season approaches, it feels like the perfect time to end the year of giving on a note of hope and generosity, not just for others but for myself as well. The act of giving, after all, has a way of coming full circle.

Why Not Join In?