Nonprofits in Santa Barbara say Giving Tuesday can change the world

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – Santa Barbara County has the second-highest number of nonprofits per capita in California, behind Marin County.

With over 2,000 nonprofits to choose from, it can be difficult to decide who to help.

When it comes to giving back, it’s not about politics or religion – it’s about our shared humanity.

“We work to address the humanitarian needs that are greatest. And right now Gaza is a hotspot in our world,” said Kerri Murray, President of Shelterbox USA.

Murray says giving back is about giving hope.

“I have worked in these war zones and seen the impact something as simple as a small stove, a blanket or a light can have when all hope is lost and people may feel like there is no one there to get them but us are survivors and we must not give up on giving people hope, especially in these situations,” said Murray.

And it’s not hard for the people of Santa Barbara to see themselves among complete strangers around the world struggling to survive.

“People here in Santa Barbara have seen some of the worst fires in California history. There were mass shootings a few miles from here, which is a direct relief in the last 20 years that I’ve been here. There have been horrifically deadly mudslides, tragic loss of life, the worst in history until the tragic loss of the pigeon boat passenger,” said Thomas Tighe, CEO and President of Direct Relief.

Direct Relief works around the clock to improve access to medicine and healthcare around the world.

“If you know someone is pulling on you, you’ll be able to get up in the morning and keep going,” Tighe said.

Direct Relief’s CEO says it’s important to really think about what causes you care about most and find an organization that reflects those values.

“At a time in our world that can be very divided, this is about coming together for humanity, showing true empathy and compassion, and engaging deeply with nonprofits that are making a positive social impact in our world,” said Kerri Murray.

Fundraising campaigns that are not always properly verified can leave charitable donors vulnerable to fraud.

Monitoring sites like Charity Navigator can help ensure your money goes to the right place.