Philanthropy doesn't just have to be dinners and team events anymore.No matter what philanthropy your house may be supporting this semester and no matter how many other events you participate in for other houses’ charities, there are plenty of simple ways to give back to our global community and make a difference outside of your Greek philanthropic obligations. Every little bit counts, even if it doesn’t end up burning a hole in your pocket or consuming all your spare time.TOMS Shoes – toms.com
With the slogan “one for one” Toms Shoes promises to do just that. With every pair purchased, another pair is given to a child in need. Toms has even expanded into sunglasses for eye care for those in need and coffee to provide suitable water. Not only are these shoes and glasses being dropped off to far away countries, but Toms is also looking to help people in need here in the United States. They are providing walking shoes, sports shoes and winter boots to children all across the country, including here in Illinois. They aren’t exactly a steal at $54 for a classic canvas shoe, but they last forever and are for a great cause.

UNICEF Tap Project - unicefapproject.org
Far from the little cardboard boxes for spare change pulled out during Halloween, UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund) now has an app for iPhone or Android that by giving it a simple tap and putting your phone down, you can provide water for children across the globe. Ten minutes, essentially the time it takes to shower, can provide water for one child for a whole day. You merely have to donate your time without your phone, nothing more. You can donate if you want though, a measly $5 can provide water to one child for 200 days.

MAC AIDS Fund - macaidsfund.org
MAC Makeup Company is a brand that girls rave about, but who knew they were also behind the great cause of helping those afflicted with HIV/AIDS? All of the proceeds from the Viva Glam line of lipstick and lip gloss go toward the MAC AIDS Fund. The price of one lipstick is $16, comes in loads of colors and there’s even a new line of Viva Glam by Rihanna. That $16 can provide the funds for childcare, school supplies and safe sex kits for those affected by or at risk of contracting the HIV/AIDS virus.
So between the endless dinners and events of philanthropy season, remember not to limit yourself to the good being done on this campus. It’s super easy to contribute to the greater good of the world community, between shoes, makeup and simply putting your phone down for a couple minutes. So keep up with the charitable spirit U of I, and we can really make some amazing changes in people’s lives.