I second the giving to the local library. They sell books to support the library's programs they provide for seniors and kids. At the end of the year, if they are overstocked and the books haven't sold, the books are gathered to one location and they have a sale of five dollars a bag of books. I have found some great quilting books in that sale. If I take them to the thrift shop called assistance league, all of the proceeds go to the many food and assistances they provide for the local needy year round.
On both accounts, I feel that I have done something to help my community.