In an increasingly fast-paced, individualistic, and unequal world, solidarity resurfaces as a quiet yet powerful force. Giving — in all its forms — becomes a bridge between contrasting realities: between those who have and those who need, between comfort and urgency, between indifference and care. More than a one-time gesture, giving is a mindset, a life choice that carries the potential to transform — not only the lives of those who receive but also of those who give.
When we think about donations, most people immediately picture money. But the universe of giving is much broader. People donate time, blood, knowledge, kindness, attention. They donate books, food, clothes, toys, and emotional support. And all of this has the power to change lives in profound ways. These seemingly small choices, often anonymous and quiet, are what move communities, sustain organizations, and reignite hope in difficult times.
It’s common to hear people say things like “what I can give is too little” or “my help won’t change anything.” But the truth is that collectively, every small gesture forms a powerful network. The sum of simple donations can fund hospitals, keep schools running, and feed entire communities. A striking example of this was seen during the COVID-19 pandemic: ordinary people, with limited resources, donating meals, masks, hand sanitizer, time, and compassion. These actions, combined, became the invisible infrastructure that held much of society together.
There’s something deeply human about the act of giving. Studies in positive psychology show that people who give regularly report higher levels of emotional well-being, self-esteem, and life satisfaction. Generosity activates the brain’s reward system — the same areas stimulated by pleasure, connection, and purpose. In other words, giving makes us feel good. Those who help others also help themselves. It’s a virtuous cycle.
And the impact of giving goes far beyond feelings. In numbers, the effect is enormous. In Brazil, campaigns like Ação da Cidadania, the Gerando Falcões project, and CUFA (Central Única das Favelas) raised millions of dollars, thousands of tons of food, and countless hygiene products during the pandemic. Meanwhile, digital platforms such as Benfeitoria, Vakinha, and Catarse channeled billions of reais toward social, cultural, and healthcare causes. In this context, technology has become a powerful ally of solidarity.
It’s important to note that solidarity isn’t limited to emergency relief. It can — and should — be part of our daily lives. Some schools incorporate donation habits into their curriculum, teaching children the value of generosity and sharing. Companies launch volunteer programs and social impact initiatives. Cities host clothing drives, blood donation campaigns, and community book fairs. These are long-term strategies to keep empathy alive in society.
And giving doesn’t require wealth. An old blanket can save someone’s life on a cold night. A used book can ignite a passion for reading. A single conversation with someone lonely can prevent emotional breakdown. One dollar, when added to thousands of others, can buy medicine, build schools, and feed children. What matters is consistency, intention, and the power of collective action.
What’s beautiful about giving is that it multiplies. Many people who were helped at some point in life become donors themselves. Take Letícia, for example. She grew up in a poor neighborhood in São Paulo. At age 12, she received a scholarship funded by anonymous donors. Years later, after becoming a teacher, she started her own nonprofit organization to teach literacy to children in the same community where she grew up. “I wouldn’t be here if someone hadn’t believed in me before I believed in myself,” she says. Solidarity creates a cycle of giving.
Another powerful story is that of Ana, a young woman who received a kidney from an anonymous organ donor. After years of dialysis, the transplant gave her a second chance at life. “I may never know who saved me, but every day I try to honor this new life,” she says. Today, Ana speaks publicly about organ donation and helps others sign up as donors. One silent decision by a stranger changed not just her life, but countless others.
These stories are not rare. All over Brazil — and the world — people are making quiet contributions that ripple outward. A businessperson donates used computers to a public school. A group of neighbors cook and deliver soup to the homeless. A teenager teaches basic tech skills to senior citizens. A person experiencing homelessness shares his food with someone in worse shape. These actions don’t make headlines, but they profoundly impact lives.
However, we must acknowledge the challenges. In Brazil, the culture of donation still lags behind countries like the United States, Canada, or New Zealand. According to the World Giving Index, less than 60% of Brazilians say they’ve helped someone outside their family recently. The reasons vary: mistrust of institutions, lack of habit, and the belief that small contributions don’t matter. But this mindset needs to change.
Trust is crucial. Nonprofits and social projects must be transparent, publish reports, and show where the funds go. This builds credibility and encourages new donors. On the public side, financial education is essential — people need to understand that generosity doesn’t require perfection or large amounts. Donating $1 a week is often more effective than donating $100 once and never again.
Public policy also plays a role. Governments can foster a culture of giving through tax incentive laws, national donation campaigns, volunteer programs, and partnerships with the nonprofit sector. In Brazil, for example, individuals and companies can allocate a portion of their income tax to social funds for children, youth, and the elderly. More awareness about these options is needed.
Companies, too, have a crucial role in promoting generosity. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is becoming more valuable to consumers, employees, and investors alike. Brands that support social projects, engage in community work, and adopt inclusive policies tend to earn customer loyalty and attract talent. Examples like Natura, iFood, Ambev, and many others prove that profit and purpose can go hand in hand.
So, where should one start? The answer is simple: look around. Your neighborhood, your city, your network — there’s always a cause that needs support. Choose something that resonates with you: education, health, animal welfare, environment, elderly care, childhood development. Then assess what you can offer: money, time, skills, objects, space, visibility. Set a regular schedule. Start small. What matters most is showing up.
Share your experience. Encourage friends and family. Teach children about empathy. Join campaigns. Donate blood. Register as an organ donor. Visit a local shelter or community center. Offer your talents to a project in need. Be a catalyst for kindness.
Giving is not about charity alone. It’s about community. It’s about recognizing that no one thrives alone. That we all need someone. That what we have — whether time, knowledge, money, or presence — can be exactly what someone else is missing.
In a world where so many people face hunger, abandonment, loneliness, illness, or prejudice, every act of help matters. Every gift counts. Every moment of generosity is a seed.
And that’s what giving is: planting. Planting hope, dignity, affection, opportunity. Planting a future that’s different, more compassionate, more just, and more ours. Because when we give, the world changes — and we change with it.
