Katelyn Wilburn, Campus Carrier

Whenever checking out at a big-name store, there is always the chance that you will get asked the impending question: “Would you like to round up?” When the pressure is on in the fast-paced line and the season of giving is near, people who say yes to this question spike in numbers. But do people who donate this way truly understand where their money is going? They may not realize that their generosity is being taken advantage of in the rush to check out.

To be clear, charity is important. Nevertheless, the ways in which one contributes are even more important than being charitable itself. Retailers often are not transparent as to what communities they choose to donate to, using brief phrases to give a general idea of who is in need rather than listing the charity that it goes to. This means that the consumer who donates is unaware of the true cause of donation, and it can be hard to know if they are even doing any good. 

Why does it matter what charity you donate to? Aren’t they all working to help communities in need? Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. There are charities who don’t manage their money properly and only place a small portion of donations toward their initial mission. 

It’s also crucial to research the specific causes and goals of the non-profits you support. For instance, the Salvation Army has been criticized for supporting homophobic and transphobic ideals, often evicting LGBTQ individuals. 

Another ethical issue with businesses asking for donations at the checkout is the pressure. When the time limit is on and there is a cashier staring between the payment screen and your soul, most of the time it’s easier to give in. It can be difficult to say out loud in front of a long checkout line, “no, I do not want to round up to help sick children.” 

So, is it ethical to solicit donations in this way? Even when the cause is worthy, the method matters. True charity should empower individuals to give intentionally, not corner them into quick decisions under the watchful eyes of strangers. Transparency, accountability and respect for choice are essential if retailers want to foster genuine generosity rather than 
transactional obligation.

A good way to avoid the ambiguous round-up is to directly donate to charities in which you support. Not only will you be able to know where your money is going, but you also will be able to choose the cause in  you are supporting. Just some quick research on the charities will help you show real care to communities they impact. 

Another beneficial way to give back to the community is through volunteering. Donating funds is helpful, but the easiest way to know that your contribution is helping others is by being a witness to the commitment. Volunteering is impactful, as it teaches new skills, builds community and promotes ethical charity that benefits the individuals giving and receiving. 

Volunteering helps you weave your way into the fabric of your community. Giving time means that you are forming relationships 
with the people around you, not just helping an organization meets its goals. Shared experiences with other volunteers, families in need or even mentors can foster trust and solidarity. It will place you 
directly in the lives of those you’re helping, encouraging new perspectives.  

Volunteering helps you grow new skills as well. Stepping outside of your comfort zone can mean organizing events, teaching or even doing more hands-on activities. This transforms charity into a two-way exchange. When you give your time and energy, you can also gain valuable skills and confidence that will enrich your journey through life. 

Berry has countless partners for volunteering, such as Sleep in Heavenly Peace, where they
build beds for families in need, or even PAWs down the road, where people can volunteer to help shelter animals. Not only is this a convenient way to help others, but you can clearly see the impact. 

Although rounding up seems easy and simple, the real factors lying behind it are anything but. Understand that you should do research on the charities that you send money to and always consider hands-on approaches to helping others. After all, the holidays are the giving season. Charity is encouraged, but educated donations and active involvement are the amazing contributions we should be making.