This post is part of a series on 13 money resolutions for 2013. As your finances are back on track, it’s time to start giving back. When times are tough, giving might not seem feasible, but you don’t need to be rich to make a difference. Giving is a generous act that anyone can do.

Giving on a Limited Budget

Even if you’re on a tight budget, you can still give your time, which can have a huge impact on those around you. For example, I used to play the piano at a retirement home. We went with friends and enjoyed playing music for the residents. You could learn to play an instrument online and do something similar. My friend volunteers at a children’s hospital, teaching ten kids how to paint. Another friend serves hot food to the homeless under a subway bridge in Paris. Even without money, you can always find a little time to give.

You can also donate your skills. Charities often need people to raise funds, organize events, build websites, supervise youth camps, tutor kids, bake cookies, or even fix things.

Find a charity you like and offer to help. Don’t feel pressured to give more than what you’re comfortable with.

Giving Builds Social Capital

Remember George Bailey from “It’s a Wonderful Life”? He spent his life helping others, and when he faced bankruptcy, the town came together to support him. Although George wasn’t rich, he had immense social capital because of his generosity.

Helping others builds social capital. If you volunteer at your church or local charity, you’ll meet people who might help you in the future. While you hopefully never need emergency help, you might appreciate the charity’s accountant helping with your taxes or the church lending you a room for meetings.

Never give with the expectation of receiving, but know that generosity often leads to a richer life.

Giving to the Right People

Different people prefer different kinds of charities. Personally, I favor local charities because I can see the direct impact and can also volunteer my time. I also support causes like women’s literacy, access to clean water, and education.

You might choose to support research for a disease affecting a loved one, sponsor a race your niece is running, buy Girl Scout cookies, or help the homeless in your area. Just do a bit of research to ensure the charity is reputable. While most charities are noble, some might not be.

When helping individuals, I prefer giving material support. For instance, if a family struggles with addiction, I’d rather bring groceries or take the kids out for the day instead of giving money.

Giving back doesn’t always mean donating to a charity. You can help friends, family, or neighbors by offering your skills or time. Maybe take care of a single mom’s kids once a week, teach a neighbor a new skill, or watch their house when they’re away. Generosity can start right in your own community.

Giving the Right Amount

Only you know how much time or money you can afford to give. Volunteering at a soup kitchen, for example, takes time away from other personal or financial obligations.

Start small, perhaps one night a month or $10, and gradually increase until you feel satisfied. Some advocate for donating 10% of your income. If you’re still paying off debts, you might focus on debt repayment first and then resume donations. Alternatively, determine how many hours $200 of your time equals and volunteer for that duration.

If you’re good at using coupons, you can stretch your donation money further by buying items on sale and donating them.

Hidden Benefits of Giving

Interestingly, you are often the one who benefits most from giving. It feels good, and people appreciate and respect you for it. There might even be financial benefits, as donations are tax-deductible. For instance, donating old clothes to the Salvation Army can result in a tax deduction.

Once, I raised funds for a project in Africa, and we managed to take 20 underprivileged kids there almost for free. I also flew for free as a supervisor and stayed an additional month, enjoying the complimentary flight. Though financial gain wasn’t the goal, it was a nice perk.

Ultimately, the biggest rewards come from the experiences and connections you make. An elderly person smiling while you play music, or a teen thanking you for inspiring them, are invaluable.

Are you volunteering somewhere? What charities do you support?

Don’t forget about the $1,000 and $100 giveaways. You could choose to donate the prize to charity!