Donation Meaning
Donation Definition & Usage
The act of giving something (typically money, goods, or time) to a charity or cause without expecting something in return.
Examples
- "She made a generous donation to the animal shelter."
- "The charity relies on donations to fund its work with homeless people."
- "Many people donate clothes to the local thrift store during the holiday season."
- "He was recognized for his significant donation to the cancer research foundation."
- "The museum is seeking donations to fund its new exhibit."
A formal gift made by a person or institution, often recorded legally and with specific conditions attached.
Examples
- "The university received a large donation of books from a former alumnus."
- "He donated his collection of rare coins to the museum as part of his estate."
- "The land donation to the city allowed for the creation of a new park."
- "The government has set up a fund for donations towards infrastructure development."
- "The company made a donation of software to the non-profit organization."
A voluntary action of giving as an expression of generosity or goodwill, often associated with personal or social responsibility.
Examples
- "The community came together to make a donation to the local food bank."
- "As a birthday gift, she asked for donations to her favorite charity instead of presents."
- "The school's fundraising event raised over $10,000 in donations."
- "Corporate donations are essential for the charity's continued operations."
- "His donation to the environmental cause showed his commitment to sustainability."
Cultural Context
In many cultures, donations are seen as acts of kindness, generosity, and community responsibility. They can be motivated by personal values, religious beliefs, or a desire to help those in need. In some societies, large donations are also seen as a way to gain social recognition or status. The tradition of giving has long been part of philanthropic efforts globally, with both individuals and institutions participating in various forms of giving.
The Gift of Giving
Story
The Gift of Giving
The community center had been struggling to keep its doors open for months. Volunteers worked tirelessly, organizing events and seeking support, but it wasn't until the donation drive that things truly changed. It all started when Linda, a local schoolteacher, decided to host a charity event. She posted an appeal on social media, urging people to contribute whatever they could. At first, the donations trickled in – a few bags of clothes, some leftover food. But then, something remarkable happened. A businessman, who had heard of the drive through a friend, made an unexpected donation. His check was enough to cover the center's bills for the next year. When Linda received the donation, she couldn't believe her eyes. 'This is incredible!' she exclaimed, barely able to contain her excitement. The businessman smiled, knowing that his act of giving would have a lasting impact. The news spread quickly, and soon, others were making donations, both large and small. As Linda stood at the front of the center during the celebration, she spoke to the crowd. 'This isn't just about money. It's about what we can do when we come together to help one another. Every donation matters, no matter the size.' The event was a resounding success, and the center continued its work, thanks to the generosity of the community. Linda felt a deep sense of gratitude, knowing that the spirit of giving had truly transformed their lives.