THE MAGIC OF DONATION .

Have you ever asked yourself how much do you positively contribute to your community and uplift those around you ? If it’s the case what have been your note on a scale of 0 to 10 ?

The concept of giving without expecting anything in return is often referred to as altruism. Altruism involves selfless concern for the well-being of others and is considered a positive and compassionate way of interacting with the world. But are people really donating without expecting something in return like a type of ROI ? We would say “yes” many people engage in acts of donation and altruism without expecting anything tangible in return. The motivation behind such actions varies and can include a genuine desire to help others, contribute to a cause, or make a positive impact on the community. People may be driven by empathy, compassion, a sense of social responsibility, or a personal connection to the cause.

While some individuals or organizations may offer acknowledgments, gratitude, or recognition for donations, the core motivation for many donors is often rooted in the intrinsic satisfaction of making a difference rather than seeking direct personal benefits. Acts of giving can be deeply fulfilling on an emotional and psychological level, and many individuals find joy in knowing they’ve positively impacted someone else’s life or contributed to a cause they care about

But still When applied to helping others, they are always various forms and benefits behind:

1. Emotional Rewards: Helping others can bring a sense of fulfillment and joy. The act of giving can trigger the release of endorphins, the brain’s “feel-good” chemicals, leading to a positive emotional experience. “I was going through very difficult moment , when I lost my job , at same time my wife also lost her job , we decided both to make an action with a positive impact , we then went to Cameroon , where we have been doing social work for few weeks , when we came back to USA , we where very stable emotionally and totally rebuild ” said Andrew one American volunteer.
2. Building Connections: Acts of kindness and generosity can strengthen social bonds and foster a sense of community. By helping others without expecting anything in return, you contribute to building a supportive and interconnected network of relationships. Donations have the potential to build powerful connections in several ways “One of my best memories in Cameroon was the Shared Values I had with people we made during our social working time there. As individuals we could share with other volunteers a common commitment to a particular mission leading us to the same goal. This shared purpose creates a sense of connection among us , we believed in making a positive impact on life of children with whom we have been working”
3. Positive Ripple Effect: A positive ripple effect refers to the spread of positive actions or influences outward, creating a series of beneficial consequences or outcomes. It’s a metaphorical way of describing how one positive action can lead to additional positive actions, impacting individuals or communities in a cascading manner. For example, if someone performs an act of kindness, like helping a neighbor in need. Altruism can create a ripple effect, inspiring others to engage in acts of kindness as well. Your selfless actions may motivate those around you to pay it forward, creating a positive impact on a larger scale.
4. Personal Growth: “When my wife and I came back from Cameroon we could feel both that we have grown up spiritually , personally and even professionally . ” Personal growth refers to the ongoing development and improvement of an individual’s skills, knowledge, character, and self-awareness. It is a lifelong journey of self-discovery, learning, and transformationEngaging in altruistic behavior can contribute to personal growth and development. It allows individuals to cultivate empathy, compassion, and a broader perspective on life.
5. Making a Difference: . The impact of selfless acts, no matter how small, should not be underestimated. Small acts of kindness have the power to make a significant and positive difference in someone else’s life. Whether it’s offering a helping hand, showing empathy, or providing support, these gestures can have ripple effects, creating a more compassionate and connected community. The cumulative impact of numerous small acts of kindness collectively contributes to a better, more caring society. It could be offering a listening ear, providing support during tough times, or assisting with practical matters.
6. Contributing to a Better Society: Altruism serves as a cornerstone in the construction of a compassionate and caring society. When individuals and communities prioritize the well-being of others without expecting personal gain, it fosters a culture of empathy, cooperation, and mutual support. Altruistic actions contribute to a positive social environment, reinforcing the idea that collective well-being is essential for the overall health of society. In a compassionate and caring society, people are more inclined to understand and address the needs of others, leading to stronger social bonds and a sense of shared responsibility for the greater good. When individuals prioritize the well-being of others, it can contribute to the creation of a more supportive and harmonious community.
7. Enhancing Well-Being: Research suggests that acts of kindness and altruism can contribute to overall well-being. People who engage in regular prosocial behavior often report higher levels of life satisfaction and happiness. They do have more positive emotions, better life satisfaction , better physical and mental health , less stress , more connections and better longevity .

Ferdinand and Kalila to smildation member , making positive impact in the city of Douala

achieving personal goals is important for individual growth and fulfillment, but maintaining a sense of fairness and altruism adds depth and meaning to those achievements. Balancing personal success with a consideration for the well-being of others creates a harmonious approach to life. Fairness ensures that success is attained without exploiting or disadvantaging others, while altruism allows individuals to contribute positively to their communities and uplift those around them. This combination not only benefits society but also enhances personal satisfaction by fostering a sense of purpose and interconnectedness with others.

It’s important to note that while giving without expecting anything in return is a noble approach, balance is key. It’s healthy to receive support and help from others when needed, creating a reciprocal and supportive environment. Ultimately, the act of giving should come from a genuine desire to contribute to the well-being of others and society as a whole.

Would you join us and achieve many positive things together ?

By Hans Dimitri NGUILE

Specialist in people & culture management