How Everyday Habits Can Fuel Big Change
March 26, 2025 | Written by Branden Waggoner
When people think about philanthropy, they often picture big checks, fundraising galas, or grand volunteer trips across the globe. But what if we told you that doing good doesn’t always require a massive effort. Sometimes, it just means being a little more intentional with your everyday choices.
We’re big believers at Magnified Giving that philanthropy should be accessible, especially for young people. And the good news? It is. There are so many small, everyday ways to give back without overhauling your life or your bank account.
Here’s how you can build generosity into your daily routine, no glittery gala ticket required. ✨
Turn Your Grocery Run Into Giving
This one’s easy. If you or your family shops at Kroger, you can link your account to Kroger Community Rewards and have a portion of every purchase donated to a nonprofit—like us!
All you have to do is go to your Kroger account settings, search for Magnified Giving, and select us as your chosen organization. That’s it. No extra cost to you, just philanthropy powered by snacks and shampoo.
Shop Nonprofit-Owned or Mission-Driven Brands
Need a gift or treat for a friend, a teacher, or yourself? Try shopping from businesses that support social good.
Ten Thousand Villages: A nonprofit, fair-trade shop that sells handmade items from artisans around the world. Every purchase supports economic opportunity and sustainability.
Aruna Project: A Cincinnati-based organization that employs women who have survived human trafficking in South Asia. Every bag, headband, and piece of activewear supports freedom and healing.
Portaluca Boutique: A vibrant boutique located in Norwood, OH, that sells quality fashion at affordable prices, with proceeds benefiting Dress for Success Cincinnati to help women achieve economic independence.
Nursing Freedom: An online store selling handmade nursing covers made in Nepal by women fighting against the cycle of sex trafficking. Purchases support these artisans and break the cycle of exploitation.
These are just a few examples, but there are hundreds of both brick and mortar and online shops that support important causes. These businesses don’t just donate to good causes, they are good causes. By choosing them, you’re helping fuel ethical employment, global development, and social justice, just by clicking "add to cart."
Support Local Products That Give Back
Here in the Cincinnati area, we’re lucky to have tons of small businesses doing good behind the scenes. As you shop, keep an eye out for products or sales that benefit local causes.
One example is Deeper Roots Coffee’s Bearcat Blend. A portion of proceeds from this special roast goes toward scholarships for University of Cincinnati students, helping more young people access higher education.
It’s just coffee, but it’s coffee that matters. ☕
Get Creative With Fundraising
If you’re a student, you’ve probably been part of a fundraiser before, maybe for your school, your sports team, or even a class trip. But what if your next fundraiser helped fuel your community?
Think about hosting a:
Bake sale with proceeds going to a local nonprofit
Clothing swap that benefits youth shelters or mutual aid groups
Art night or open mic where entry fees support an organization your class voted on
Giving doesn’t have to be formal, it just has to be thoughtful. And fun is always a bonus!
Why It All Adds Up
Here’s the thing. Small actions done consistently build habits. And habits build culture.
When you choose to give through your everyday decisions, you’re not just helping others, you’re shaping the kind of world you want to live in. You’re practicing generosity like it’s muscle memory. You’re showing your peers, your community, and your future self that philanthropy can be part of who you are, not just something you do once in a while.
And if you're a young person looking to create change, this is where it starts. Not with a big announcement or a five-figure donation, but with a coffee purchase, a fair-trade bracelet, or a fundraiser with your friends.
That’s how we build a generation of givers. And that’s what we’re all about.
Want more ways to make a difference? Learn more about our mission at Magnified Giving. 💙