The Compassion Project: Compassion Fatigue

We Appreciate You. 365 Days a Year.

Rachel Godlesky, Philanthropy Intern

The holidays bring out the generosity in many people. They’re generous with gifts to friends, with the time they give to their family, and also the money they give to causes that touch their hearts. It is easy to get overwhelmed by all of the responsibilities we place on ourselves.

People who have not donated to an organization all year may suddenly be inspired to do so in the spirit of giving. But, this can add stress to an already stressful time. You may be stretching your budgets for gifts or travel expenses. It’s normal to want to do everything, but it’s important to only do what you can.

Mother Teresa Understood Compassion Fatigue

She wrote in her plan to her superiors that it was MANDATORY for her nuns to take an entire year off from their duties every 4-5 years to allow them to heal from the effects of their care-giving work.
-www.stress.org

If the holidays put financial strain on you, don’t donate during the holidays. Organizations like the WCA are grateful for the overwhelming support we receive during the holidays, which helps to meet our needs for the next 3-6 months. However, we have those needs year-round. A donation in July makes just as much of an impact as one in December.

While it is appealing to spend the holidays volunteering and giving back, do not stretch yourself too thin. If it takes away important time with family or impedes travel plans, volunteer at another time. There are plenty of opportunities to volunteer all year, and we always appreciate the help!