Eighteen percent of all donations to charities are given during the month of December. Not surprising at all, I must admit. There's something about the holiday season that puts everyone in a giving mood. Maybe its the idea of many not being able to enjoy the fortunes that come along with the holidays that inspires charitable donations. Maybe it's those special people who ask their friends and family to donate to a charity instead of giving them gifts. Either way, charities receive most of their donations in the month of December. Are you contributing to that? If not, you should be. Every dollar makes a difference. But there is a lot of concern about the reliability of the thousands of charities out there, so I made you a list (in no particular order, I should mention).

Don't be a d***, donate.

1. Scholarship America

This Minnesota based charity that helps communities, corporations, foundations and individuals with fundraising, managing and awarding scholarships to students, Us college kids have to stick together. You're getting an education, why not help out someone who can't afford to?

2. Action Against Hunger

Action Against Hunger is a global humanitarian organization dedicated to ending world hunger. They helps malnourished children while providing communities with access to safe water and sustainable solutions to hunger.

3. Humane Society of The United States

I don't think I have to explain the Humane Society. It's a charity dedicated to ending abuse towards animals. They do so much more than run adoption shelters. Over 50,000 animals a year are saved by the HSUS. Come, on, what monster doesn't want to help some puppies?

4. Charity: Water

This non-profit organization provides safe drinking water to people in developing nations. The organization has helped fund 19,819 projects in 24 countries, benefiting over 6.1 million people. Sounds good to me!

5. St. Jude's Childrens Hospital

No explanation needed. St, Jude's is one of the easiest charities to donate to, you might do it without even noticing!

6. Direct Relief

Direct Relief is a nonprofit organization with a mission to “improve the health and lives of people affected by poverty or emergency situations by mobilizing and providing essential medical resources needed for their care." They do just about anything and everything, so regardless of how mcuh you donate, it is absolutely going towards someone in need.

7. Make A Wish Foundation

Another without needing an explanation. Make A Wish is especially close to my heart, a very close friend of mine was granted her wish. What's five dollars to make an ill child smile?

8. The Red Cross

I think you get it.

9. Wounded Warriors Project

The Wounded Warrior Project is a military and veterans charity service organization empowering injured veterans and their families. Its a no-brainer to give back to those who gave everything for us.

10. OxFam Gifts

Now, this one is a personal favorite of mine. This charity is like a store where you can purchase "gifts". For example, you can buy a goat to give to a family in need, or a case of water, or supplies for a school. It's just a very creative and innovative idea. It's cool to get to choose exactly where your money goes. It makes the experience feel a little more hands-on.

11. The Elephant Sanctuary

Located in Tennessee, the Sanctuary has provided a home to 27 elephants, all retired from zoos and circuses. It provides these elephants with a natural habitat, individualized care for life, and the opportunity to live out their lives in a safe haven dedicated to their well being. I just really love elephants and these beautiful creatures need all the help they can get.

12. Doctors Without Borders

With all the horrific violence happening all over the world right now, Doctors Without Borders needs all the help they can get right now. And considering our countries policy towards refugees, a donation is the least we could do to help those in need overseas.