International Day of Charity – September 5 is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a global celebration of giving, love, and humanity. Inspired by the legacy of Mother Teresa, this day encourages people everywhere to support charitable causes, volunteer their time, and spread kindness in big or small ways. In this post, you’ll explore the rich history of charity, from Augustus the Charitable to modern fundraising, discover fun ways to celebrate, learn inspiring facts, and find out how it helps us find causes we believe in. Whether you’re planning to donate funds to charity, volunteer, or simply share a good cause online, this guide will show you why International Day of Charity is worth celebrating.
One of the earliest known examples of public charity comes from Augustus the Charitable, the first Emperor of Rome. He implemented programs to support orphans, provided food for the hungry, and distributed public funds to improve the lives of citizens. He didn’t just rule—he gave back
By the time of the Enlightenment, charity evolved from being only faith-based to more organized and widespread. Think of philanthropy as charity with a long-term vision—aimed at solving root causes rather than just treating symptoms.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, figures like Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller in the U.S. created massive foundations to support education, science, and public health—an early form of American fundraising at scale.
As charity work became more formalized, governments around the world began to regulate and support them. Many charities are exempted from taxes, recognizing their contributions to society. Legal protections helped charities grow and reach more people.
In the 20th century, Mother Teresa is born (1910) and becomes one of the most recognized symbols of love and service. Her work with the poor and sick in India earned her global admiration and eventually sainthood. Her death on September 5, 1997, led the United Nations to choose that day for the International Day of Charity.
Even a small amount can make a big impact. Choose a cause close to your heart and donate funds to charity. Whether it’s for animal shelters, children’s education, or environmental protection, every dollar helps.
Sometimes, your time is more valuable than money. Help at a food bank, mentor a student, or walk dogs at the shelter.
Share your favorite charities online. Tag them, raise awareness, or start a fundraiser. One post can inspire many others.
Host a charity bake sale, organize a game night for donations, or make handmade cards for hospital patients. Be creative!
Start young. Get your kids involved by making care packages or helping them donate their old toys and clothes.
Giving is nothing new. Ancient figures like Augustus the Charitable gave public aid to the poor in ancient Rome.
Many religious and cultural traditions also consider charity a sacred duty.
American fundraising efforts are massive, from local bake sales to nationwide campaigns.
The U.S. regularly ranks among the top in global giving surveys.
Studies show that charitable acts release dopamine, the “feel-good” chemical in your brain.
So yes—science confirms it: giving actually makes you happier!
This day gives everyone a chance to reflect on what they care about and get involved.
Whether it’s animal rescue, mental health, or ending hunger—it helps us find causes we believe in and act on them.
There’s something for everyone. Whether you're passionate about education, the environment, or ending hunger, International Day of Charity helps you explore what matters most to you.
It connects you with people and organizations who share your values and makes your voice (and your wallet) count.
Science agrees—doing good makes you feel good! Giving to others boosts your happiness, lowers stress, and even improves health.
That’s probably why so many people wait all year for a reason to give back, and this day delivers the perfect excuse.
From big cities to tiny villages, people around the world unite to help others on September 5.
It creates a global feeling of togetherness—reminding us that no matter where we live, kindness is a universal language.
International Day of Charity is a time to shine a light on unsung heroes—like volunteers, nonprofit staff, and donors who quietly change lives.
These are the people who don’t seek praise but deserve all the applause. On this day, the spotlight is theirs.
This is a day when families bake cookies for fundraisers, schools host food drives, and neighborhoods unite for a good cause.
Giving becomes a group activity, making memories and strengthening bonds along the way.
The goal is to raise awareness and encourage people around the world to help others through volunteering or donations.
Mother Teresa’s death on September 5, 1997, is the reason this date was chosen. Her life was the epitome of charity.
Yes! It’s recognized by the United Nations, and people across the globe take part in various charitable acts.
In many countries, charities are exempted from paying taxes because of their nonprofit, public-service nature.
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