As we enter the season of giving, America's generosity surges. Millions of people from every background will be looking to give back to the communities that have supported them. They'll also look to ensure that their heartfelt gift- however they choose to give - will have the most impact.

If you too are looking to give back, here are a few things to consider:

Think about what matters most to you.

What are you passionate about? What are the issues or needs in your community that you would like to help address? Do you want to give to multiple places or focus your resources in one particular area? Consider these questions so your gifts can be the most rewarding and have maximum impact.

Get your family involved.

Ask your family these same questions. Talking about the importance of helping others and giving back is a vital lesson for the next generation. Making decisions together is a great way for families to have these important discussions and put them into action. Giving is learned by example, and children that are exposed to the value of service above self from an early age will grow into lifelong donors.

Do your research.

Look to identify an organization in your community that is focusing on issues that matter to you. Assess how your gift will be used and don't shy away from supporting a nonprofit's operating costs. Overhead costs may include employing an educated staff who contribute to the mission by making sure the organization runs smoothly.

Talk to your trusted advisor and educate yourself about various giving vehicles.

There are many different ways of giving and your advisor may offer creative strategies to maximize your tax benefit while achieving other financial goals. For example, if you are over 70 and a half and need to take an IRA distribution, consider directing it to a charitable cause, tax-free. Or, give a gift of appreciated stock to avoid capital gains tax.

Speak to your Community Foundation.

Through an accredited Community Foundation, a charitable fund can be established in as little as one hour without the expense and ongoing costs of creating and operating a private foundation. Funds can be focused on a specific charitable interest, or set up to support a wide variety of causes over time. It can be established now or later through a bequest, life insurance policy, real estate, excess retirement funds, appreciated stock or other assets. Generation after generation, grants will be made from that fund to support the causes that matter to you and your family.

Individuals continue to account for the largest contributors to charities in the nation and through charitable giving we all have the ability to impact another person, a cause and a community. Now, more than ever, philanthropy plays a critical role in improving the status quo and there is no time like the present to do your part.