On Wednesday morning, Pastor Dwayne Edwards of the Pilot Point Grace Point Church of the Nazarene shared an insight at the end of the PointBank Business Breakfast.
(We'll have more about the breakfast itself in next week's issue.)
He cited a study by the Bank of America Institute on philanthropy from November 2025.
In it, it said that 'affl uent Americans remain committed to giving, with 81% making charitable contributions in 2024 despite a gradual decline in participation of the past decade.'
It also said that 'personal values are the strongest driver of giving, with 68% of donors motivated by personal values or beliefs. This deep connection to causes helps explain why 87% of affluent donors find their giving personally fulfilling, often supporting basic needs, religious services and health care.'
Denton Freedom House's Maria Jones echoed Edwards' point, expressing gratitude for the contributions that came in during North Texas Giving Day to the nonprofit.
Although monetary generosity is crucial whenever we are in a position to provide it, giving doesn't always require dollar signs.
It can also show up in the form of volunteer hours, such as at Oktoberfest this weekend on the Pilot Point Square or in one of the area organizations that helps fight food insecurity in our area, namely the Shepherd's Storehouse, Lovepacs, HOPE Food and Clothing Ministry or Meals on Wheels.
It can mean showing up to help in area schools or libraries, taking time to read to the kids or to help support the staff who work in those institutions.
We all have something we can give, either from our wallets or our work ethic.
Much like they say about presents, it is often better to give than to receive.
When we are in a position to give, it's important that we take the chance.
You never know when those good deeds might be paid forward to you in a time of need.
Abigail Bardwell is the Editor & Publisher of the Post-Signal, and she serves on both the North and East Texas Press Association and the Texas Press Association boards. She can be reached at abardwell@postsignal. com.
OPINION
