Get Organized Now!

In Less Than 5 Minutes!

by Maria Gracia

March 19, 2025

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Open your pantry. Pull out one snack or dry good you know you’re never going to eat, and set it aside to donate or toss.

Ask Maria: What to Do About Charity Mailings

GON Reader Question

Dear Maria,

Thank you for the information that you give out every day. You recently wrote a newsletter about reducing junk mail. While your advice was good, it did not address my specific problem.

I recently counted the number of charitable organizations I donate to, and it was over 60—about half of which I would like to get rid of.

They are always sending me incentives...countless address labels, greeting cards, bookmarks, photos, or offers to join.

So I return the mail with a polite “please take me off your mailing list,” but I still get them day after day after day. There does not seem to be any other way I can "unsubscribe."

They are all "worthy causes," but I only have so much money to contribute, and there are certain ones I am happy to support.

What can I do, Maria? It takes time to write back, and even though retired, I am busy every day and can barely keep up with the amount of mail I get. I dread to think what the mailman thinks of me getting 20-30 pieces of mail most days!

-- Linda Wraxalls

Maria's Response

Linda,

I completely understand your frustration! As you said, many charities do incredible work, and it’s wonderful to support causes that make a difference. The problem is, once you give to one organization, your name often gets shared with others, leading to an overwhelming amount of mail.

When I donate, I always ask the charity not to sell, rent, or share my name with other organizations. Many charities will honor this request, and it helps cut down on future solicitations.

I also set aside a certain amount of money for charitable giving each year and carefully choose the organizations I want to support. That way, I can give meaningfully without feeling pressured by every request that arrives in my mailbox.

One important thing to remember—just because a charity sends you address labels, greeting cards, or other small “gifts,” you are not obligated to donate or keep any of those items.

Getting Off the Lists
Since writing back hasn’t worked, I encourage you to use the “Do Not Mail” List. The DMAchoice.org website allows you to remove yourself from national charity and marketing lists, reducing the number of solicitations you receive.

Be Mindful When Donating. Many charities share donor lists, so whenever you make a contribution, include a note asking them not to share or sell your name.

Quickly Sort Through Your Mail. Make two piles when sorting through your mail. Bills and important items in pile A and everything else in pile B. Then, immediately recycle pile B. It's quick and will save you a whole lot of time.

When it comes to the incentives you're getting, like the address labels, bookmarks, or greeting cards, either recycle those immediately...or, if you like them, keep and use them without feeling guilty. There’s nothing wrong with appreciating a kind gesture without committing to future donations.

Giving should feel good, not stressful. It’s wonderful that you support causes that matter to you, and by taking a few steps to manage the influx of mail, you’ll have more energy to focus on the organizations that mean the most to you.

As for your mail carrier? I’m sure he or she isn't phased in the least. Most people get a lot of mail!

-- Maria

Have a question for Maria? Reply to this newsletter and ask. Your question and Maria's response may appear in a future edition of this newsletter!

On another note, know someone who could use some comfort? My Gifts of Comfort Idea List is filled with thoughtful, practical gifts to lift spirits, provide warmth, and bring a little joy—perfect for anyone facing a tough time or just needing a pick-me-up.

Are Non-Dairy Milks Really Milk?

If it doesn’t come from a cow, a goat, or another animal that produces milk, is it really milk?

Technically, no—but that hasn’t stopped oat, almond, soy, and coconut milk from taking over coffee shops and grocery store shelves. Each one has its own unique flavor, texture, and best uses, making them more than just substitutes for dairy.

Oat Milk: Naturally creamy and slightly sweet, oat milk is a favorite for coffee and lattes because it froths well and blends smoothly. It’s also a great pick for baking, as its mild flavor doesn’t overpower recipes. Bonus: It’s one of the most eco-friendly options. It's my "milk" of choice on a daily basis.

Almond Milk: Light and nutty, almond milk works well in cereals, smoothies, and tea. It’s a great choice if you prefer a subtle taste and a thinner consistency.

Soy Milk: One of the oldest plant-based milks, soy milk has a rich texture that makes it a good all-purpose choice for cooking and baking. It’s also a solid pick for those who want something closest to traditional milk in taste.

Coconut Milk: There are two kinds: the thick, rich version used in curries and the lighter drinking version. The latter adds a tropical hint to coffee or smoothies and is naturally sweeter than other options.

Whether you’re frothing up a latte, stirring into cereal, or blending a smoothie, there’s a non-dairy milk to fit the job!

Enjoying my newsletter? Please REPLY and let me know. Also, please forward this newsletter to 5 of your family members and/or friends and share the love!

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Also, if you don't already have it, my 2025 Monthly Organizing Calendar is still available. Jump in today and start tackling those organizing tasks.

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Results of last month's poll: We asked "Which of these items would you find hardest to part with during a decluttering spree?" Here are the results

"Three decisions that we all control each moment of our lives: what to focus on, what things mean and what to do in spite of the challenges that may appear."
-- Tony Robbins

I'd love to hear from you.

I LOVE GON reader mail! Whether it's a comment, suggestion, or just a note to say hello, REPLY to this email with a short note.

And remember...there's no better time to get organized, than to Get Organized Now!

Warmly,

Maria Gracia
GetOrganizedNow.com

How to Use This Newsletter

In this newsletter, you will find stories, ideas, inspiration, links and more to help you live a less stressful, more organized, more fulfilling life.

We encourage you to apply these ideas to your own life AND share them liberally with your family, friends, and fan base via email, on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, other social media outlets, and in person, of course!

When you share, please mention my name and web site - Maria Gracia - GetOrganizedNow.com as the source.

Thank you for helping to spread the gift of organizing far and wide!

-- Maria

Maria Gracia,

Get Organized Now!

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-- Maria Gracia

Get Organized Now!
611 Arlington Way
Watertown Wisconsin 53094
USA

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Mar 19 - Ask Maria: What to Do About Charity Mailings - GON in 5 Minutes Newsletter