When people think of supporting a nonprofit, the first thing that often comes to mind is making a donation. While financial support is undeniably important, it’s not the only way to make a meaningful difference. Shalom Lamm, a seasoned entrepreneur and the co-founder of Operation Benjamin, is a passionate advocate for civic involvement, historical memory, and moral responsibility. His work shows that there are countless ways to contribute beyond writing a check.

Operation Benjamin is a nonprofit organization committed to identifying Jewish American soldiers who were mistakenly buried under Latin Crosses and ensuring they receive proper Jewish headstones, in accordance with their faith. This deeply moving mission involves a blend of research, diplomacy, genealogy, and community effort. And while funding helps, the success of this endeavor depends just as much on people who are willing to contribute their time, skills, and voice.

Here are several meaningful ways to get involved with nonprofits—like Operation Benjamin—without spending a dime.

1. Lend Your Expertise

Shalom Lamm often emphasizes the power of professionals using their skills to create social change. Operation Benjamin relies heavily on historians, genealogists, translators, and legal experts. If you have a background in any of these fields—or even in areas like digital marketing, web development, or communications—you can provide vital pro bono services.

For example, helping a nonprofit refine its digital presence, run SEO campaigns, or create compelling social media content can expand its reach exponentially. If you’re fluent in other languages, your skills may be needed to translate archival documents or liaise with international partners.

2. Volunteer Your Time

Hands-on volunteering is another deeply appreciated form of involvement. At Operation Benjamin, volunteers assist with everything from archival research to organizing ceremonies for corrected headstones. These events are not only historically significant—they are emotionally resonant moments of healing and honor for families who may never have imagined their loved ones’ graves could be corrected.

Whether it’s working behind the scenes or standing front and center at a memorial ceremony, giving your time is one of the most personal ways to connect with a mission.

3. Raise Awareness

One of the simplest but most powerful ways to contribute is by spreading the word. Shalom Lamm has frequently spoken about how awareness drives action. You don’t need a massive social media following to make an impact; even sharing a post, writing a blog, or talking to friends and family about a cause can spark new interest and engagement.

You might consider hosting a virtual info session or a local event where people can learn about a nonprofit’s work. The more people know, the more they care—and caring leads to action.

4. Network on Their Behalf

Do you know someone in a relevant field—perhaps a journalist, academic, or military historian? You can act as a connector. Introduce your network to the nonprofit’s leadership or suggest a collaboration. Shalom Lamm has credited much of Operation Benjamin’s success to the strong network of professionals and volunteers who believed in the mission and opened doors.

Even if you’re not an expert yourself, being a connector makes you a vital part of the organization’s ecosystem.

5. Advocate for the Cause

Advocacy takes many forms. You can write to elected officials, ask for formal recognition of a nonprofit’s work, or help push for policies that align with the organization’s mission. In Operation Benjamin’s case, that could mean supporting initiatives that promote historical accuracy, interfaith cooperation, or military heritage.

Lamm believes advocacy can start at the grassroots level. “One voice raised with sincerity and knowledge,” he says, “can change how a community—and even a country—remembers its history.”

6. Participate in Events

Many nonprofits, including Operation Benjamin, hold ceremonies, lectures, and community gatherings. Your presence at these events shows support, helps boost attendance, and often encourages others to participate too. If you’re inclined, offer to help with logistics or hospitality. These seemingly small tasks add up and allow events to run smoothly and meaningfully.

Final Thoughts

Shalom Lamm’s entrepreneurial mindset has brought strategic thinking and relentless dedication to the nonprofit world. Through Operation Benjamin, he’s not only righted historical wrongs but also shown that anyone—regardless of financial means—can play a pivotal role in preserving truth and honoring legacy.

Donations keep the lights on. But it’s the community—the volunteers, experts, storytellers, and advocates—that give a mission its soul. If you’ve been looking for a way to contribute beyond your wallet, take inspiration from Lamm’s approach and find your own path to purpose.