How to Support Nonprofits When You’re Broke (Yes, You Can!)
You Don’t Need Money to Make a Difference
Let’s get this out of the way: you don’t need a big bank account to support a cause you care about.
Too often, people assume that if they can’t donate cash, they have nothing to offer. That’s a myth. Nonprofits don’t just run on dollars — they run on community. On voices. On time. On creativity. On hustle. On heart.
If you’ve ever thought, “I’d help if I could,” this is your reminder that you can — even when you’re broke.
Here’s how.
1. Share Their Content
It’s free. It takes 30 seconds. And it makes a huge impact.
When you like, share, retweet, repost, or comment on a nonprofit’s post, you help them reach more people. That visibility can lead to new donors, volunteers, or partnerships. It’s digital word-of-mouth—and it matters.
💡 Pro Tip: Use your story or caption to add your personal connection to the cause. It makes the post hit harder.
Our social media handle is @Innovoreach on Twitter/X, Instagram, and TikTok. It’s just “Innovoreach” on FB.
2. Offer Your Skills
Are you a photographer? A writer? A graphic designer? Great with spreadsheets? Social media savvy? Handy with tools?
Nonprofits are often in need of skilled volunteers, especially in areas they can’t afford to hire out. Donating your talents for even a few hours can be just as valuable as cutting a check.
3. Be a Hype Person
Talk about them. Brag on them. Tag your friends. Drop their name in conversations. Recommend them when someone’s looking to give back.
Every time you uplift a nonprofit publicly, you’re expanding their reach and reminding people that they exist and deserve attention.
4. Start a Micro-Fundraiser
You don’t have to raise thousands. You can start small:
$5 Friday challenges
Birthday fundraisers
“Buy a coffee for the cause” posts
Cash App/Venmo chains with a goal (like raising $100 for hygiene kits)
Peer-to-peer fundraising works because people give to people they trust. And even if you can’t give personally, you can still be the one who gets the ball rolling.
FYI, Our Cash App is $InnovoreachHQ 🤭
5. Write a Testimonial or Review
If you’ve been helped by, volunteered with, or witnessed the work of a nonprofit, say something.
Write a Google review. Leave a comment on their website. Submit a short video. Testimonials build credibility and help others see the real-world impact of the organization.
6. Attend Free Events & Show Up
Sometimes just being in the room is powerful.
Free community events, rallies, open houses, or volunteer days often cost nothing, but your presence helps build momentum. When nonprofits see their community show up, it fuels them. And when donors see packed rooms? They give more.
7. Ask What They Actually Need
You’d be surprised how many nonprofits need:
Basic office supplies
Storage bins
Hygiene items
Gas cards
Plastic bags
Water bottles
Your old laptop or printer
You might have what they need sitting in your closet. Just ask, “What’s on your wishlist right now?” Then go from there.
8. Create Content for Them
Love to make videos? Design Canva graphics? Write blog posts? Edit photos?
Create a reel, TikTok, testimonial post, infographic, or behind-the-scenes moment that helps tell their story. Authentic content builds trust and trust builds support.
9. Advocate in Your Circles
You don’t need a mic to have a voice.
Speak up when your workplace is looking for causes to support. Suggest local nonprofits when grant opportunities or holiday drives pop up. Tag them in grant threads on Twitter or LinkedIn. Be the bridge between resources and the people doing the work.
10. Believe That You Matter
This is the most important one.
You matter.
Your voice matters. Your presence matters. Your support, however it shows up, matters.
Nonprofits don’t just need your money. They need your energy, your belief, and your willingness to show up however you can.
So don’t count yourself out just because your pockets are tight. Count yourself in because your heart’s already in the right place.
