b'HELPERS HIGHCharitable giving benefits both the giver and the recipient. That isnt just an old adage; altruism has been shown to have both physical and mental benefits. According to studies from the Cleveland Clinic and Johns Hopkins, acts of altruism have been connected to lower blood pressure, lower stress levels, fewer incidents of depression, higher self esteem, even longer life. Good deeds are known to trigger the release of serotonin, dopamine andJeff has 4 children, Olivia, AJ, oxytocin, the happy chemicals of the brain, and activateHadley and Ethan.the pleasure and trust centers of the brain. In a study at the University of Oregon, MRIs of people who gave to charities showed stimulation of the reward center of the brain.2 Everyone wants to have enough money to feel financially secure, achieve financial freedom and experience the peace of Other research shows the benefits of turning our attention tomind that results from reaching those goals. Financial worries others, diverting our thoughts from our own worries and linkingoften lead to the question, Why should I give if Im not us to a larger purpose and the greater good. Generosity can alsofinancially secure? create a sense of community while reducing our own senseof loneliness.Significance and success tend to be comparative in nature. Internally, its hard for people to give to others if theyre comparing HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH? their personal success or significance to that of others.These concerns are often what brings clients to Rather & KittrellIn deciding what to give of their time and money, people to manage their finances. They want to achieve enough often worry how much is enough and how much is too much.financial security that theyre able to feel comfortable giving to Most people want to feel three things:the causes they are passionate about. Secure. Significant. Successful. We have found that the most generous givers are those who have a handle on their financial situation and capabilities. The most generous givers have determined how much is enough for themselves and their heirs, and how much they have to share with others.HOW AND WHERE DO I GIVE?There are many ways to give to the organizations and ideas that interest us. We use this mnemonic as a guide. What can we give? We can give our L.I.F.E: Labor, Influence, Finances and Experiences. In other words, we can give our labor through time, energy and effort; we canshare our influence by introducing other potential donors to an organization; we can offer our money to financially help support those in need; and we can lend our experience and expertise to meet the needs of the organization. Jeff Hall has been with RK for more than 20 years. Volume One Summer 2022 27'