One of the most effective ways a person can help others is by collecting money for an important cause. One person alone cannot fund the research needed to cure cancer. But that one person can encourage numerous other people to donate to cancer research. Some people fundraise for established charities, such as the American Heart Association or the Humane Society of the United States. Other people fundraise on a local level, collecting money for people who need food or a place to live. Whatever the cause, the most important step a person can take is getting started. Part of the Making a Difference series, Fundraising, Raising Money for Important Causes explores the various ways a person can get involved in fundraising to improve the lives of others.