Some people give to non-profits because it’s the right thing for them to do. Others give to non-profits because they can claim the donations on their taxes. I don’t care why you donate, but today, I’m giving you my choices for non-profits that will not only help your bottom line, but will also help those who help us. (And if you’re going along with my Beatles theme I’ve got going on here… “Help!”)

There are a lot of great diabetes related non-profits like JDRF and the American Diabetes Association - and they do a fantastic job raising funds for research and projects through various events and walks and the like. I’m focusing on the ones who rely on us to seek them out. These organizations don’t have a ton of staff or volunteers to rally around events and fundraise, but still need help. In no particular order, these are near and dear to my heart:

1. The Diabetes Hands Foundation isn’t looking for a cure. It’s looking to empower the community and connect those with diabetes (and those who love them) with others. The incredible staff and volunteers work tirelessly to create value for all who need services and help to raise funds for other organizations. Seriously, how cool is that? You can make a one-time donation or set up a recurring investment.

2. While not a recognized 501 not-for-profit in the United States (it’s a non-profit based in Australia so maybe if you’re an Aussie, you can get a tax break…), Insulin for Life is an organization that brings lifesaving supplies to those who don’t have access to it. I can’t even imagine how panicked I would feel if I couldn’t have access to the one thing that keeps me alive, can you? They are looking for not only monetary donations, but unused, unexpired diabetes supplies. Every little bit helps to defray the cost of shipping, so if you are inclined, give them a few dollars to help others have what they need to live.

3. Diabetes Scholars Foundation offer scholarships for two important groups: Type 1 high school seniors who plan on continuing their education after graduation and families of Type 1s who wish to attend the phenomenal Children With Diabetes conference. Every little bit can help a teen or a family who needs a little extra to get the education (whether academic or emotional) they crave and need. (They’ve awarded scholarships to over 400 families to attend conferences. Seriously amazing.) Speaking of Children with Diabetes, they are now a not-for-profit, but did not have a donation button on their website. As soon as that becomes available, I’ll post it here. Why? This.

4. Joslin Diabetes Center also allows you to donate and is a tax-exempt organization. I was given the best possible care after my diagnosis and for several years after with their top-notch medical staff and researchers helping me along the way. Without them, I’d be in a sorry mess of things. If you have a medical center that focuses on diabetes research or patient programs, I’d love to hear them. List them and the links in your comments and I’ll add them at the end.)

5. And last, but certainly not least, diaTribe is now a non-profit organization, “committed to improving the lives of people affected by diabetes and prediabetes and advocating for action.” The newsletter and research information that they profit is the best I’ve ever seen for those of us who want to learn about the latest and they have been incredibly supportive in so many endeavors.

So, if you have a few pennies to spare, please consider donating to these worthy organizations who support the things we need to keep us “alive and kicking”. (Yes, that was a Simple Minds song reference and not the Beatles.)

“All you need is love…” and a little cash for charity.