In his book, Bowling Alone, Robert B. Putnam notes that "giving time and money to help others is a long and distinguished tradition in American society." He adds, "Both philanthropy and volunteering are roughly twice as common among Americans as among the citizens of other countries."

Today, we are embroiled in an economic downturn the likes of which we have never seen, and it is precisely the harnessing of our "giving spirit" and the cultivation of gifts of time and money that will enable our community to meet the needs of our friends and neighbors during this time of economic distress.

As president and CEO of the Allied Jewish Federation of Colorado, I am mindful not only of those who are in need, but also of those who are no longer able to provide the financial support they - and we - have become accustomed to.

While the financial impact of this downturn is taking a toll on thousands of people across our community, the psychological impact is taking a toll on even more. Even those who are not having trouble feeding their families or paying their bills are feeling the effects of the onslaught of bad news - and, as a result, many are reticent to part with any charitable dollars during this time of uncertainty. Both donors and recipients alike are feeling afraid and out of control.

What is the antidote to this fear and uncertainty?

Philanthropy. And volunteering.

At the federation, we believe every donor counts, and every dollar counts - and this has never been truer than it is this year. Because many of our most loyal and generous donors are finding it difficult to keep pace with their past levels of giving, many of us are looking to expand our pool of donors in order to make up the shortfall created by decreased giving among our long-time benefactors.

When it comes to volunteering, Mahatma Gandhi said, "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." It's no secret that the stress created by economic hardship can have a detrimental effect on one's physical and emotional well-being. But in a study conducted by the Corporation for National Community Service, researchers found that volunteer activities can strengthen the social ties that protect individuals from isolation during difficult times, while the experience of helping others leads to a sense of greater self-worth and trust.

Right now, nonprofits across our community are offering numerous ways for you to get involved. Mile High United Way - www.unitedwaydenver.org - has an online database of volunteer opportunities, which is also accessible by dialing 211. Or, take a minute to give your favorite charity a call to see how you can help - with so many nonprofits tightening their belts these days, volunteer help will be much appreciated.

On the other hand, you can also give of yourself in less formal ways - by helping out a neighbor, collecting and sorting canned goods for a food bank, donating blood or mentoring a child at a school in your area.

Judaism teaches that even under the most challenging of circumstances, everyone has something to give. Our tradition tells us, "Even a poor man, who himself survives on charity, should give charity." This obligation to give is imposed - even on those in need - because the rabbis believed that giving of oneself helps preserve a person's sense of dignity and humanity, even in hard times. If you can't give what you're used to giving, give what you can - and feel good about it. If you can give more, please give more. And if you need help, ask for it.

These are tough times. But it is through giving - of our time, our money or preferably both - that we, as a community will not only meet the challenges presented by today's economic climate, but ill be strengthened by them.

Doug Seserman is the president and CEO of the Allied Jewish Federation of Colorado.