I just got a statement from Amazon showing how much my designated non-profit program received through Amazon's "smile" program. Since potential beneficiaries of the program are not allowed to advertise their participation, not many folks know about this painless way to help out. My designated beneficiary is mandolin related.

Basically, if you sign up and designate a beneficiary, you make your purchases through Amazon's "Smile" portal instead of their usual one. Prices and selection are identical through the two portals, but if you buy through the Smile portal, Amazon donates 1% of the item's price to the designated beneficiary. No fuss, no muss, and no cost to you or me.

I was surprised at how many local charities and non-profits I found on Amazon's list when I signed up.

For the record, I have no connection to Amazon or the entity that benefits from my participation in the Smile program.

Google "how to sign up for Amazon Smile" to find out details.