For the last few years I have had the distinct opportunity to serve on a number of boards. The experience has been engaging and insightful.

Of the few boards and committees that I have served I have been exposed to the heart and will of some of this community’s largest givers.

More recently, while serving on various boards, I have been fortunate enough to observe how men and women who understand the importance of giving operate.

When we think of giving we tend to associate it strictly to monetary giving. Though monetary giving is a large part of many nonprofit organizations’ existence, there are other categories that seem equally as viable and have drawn out the best of people in this community who not only want to see our community organizations, not-for-profits, and churches succeed, but will not stop contributing until they have nothing else to give.

This time of year especially represents the time of year when people begin to express their gratitude and take self inventory of things that are most important to them like the less fortunate and family.

I have often heard it said by my peers that you should establish a plan of giving in the areas of time, talent and treasure.

With the constant reminder of the downturn in the economy and an almost disciplined reaction to request for financial assistance many people have chosen to cut back on what seems to be nonessential giving.

It is impossible to give what you don’t have. For some people the very thought of giving makes them cringe.

This year as you prepare to gather holiday gifts include ways to give. There are a plethora of organizations, churches, and nonprofits that will not meet their goals this year. Your service in time, your offering of your area of expertise, and, of course, your treasure might just be what is needed to help some organizations stay afloat this holiday season.

It is your time, your talent and your treasure that covers a holistic approach to giving.

I used to believe in the phrase give till it hurts, but then I realized giving doesn’t hurt, it helps. Whatever you choose to give when done with a right heart is never lost.

I am learning that those who are the biggest givers never go without. They always seem to have what they need when they need it. It is as if they need to give. They do it unselfishly, not to be recognized and not to receive anything in return, but to satisfy the part in all of us that was designed to help others.

From personal giving to corporate giving, our time, talent and treasure is required of us. Give what you can!

Jesse J. Wilkerson is the principal of a local architecture firm and hosts Vision for Success 1240 AM WHBU. His column appears every other Monday on the Business page.