Islam is a way of life. Many of us forget what charity stands for in Islam. Many donate money to mosques and religious schools. God has clearly said in the Quran - blessed are those who spend in the cause of Islam. But donating money, for many, is like donating something that most of us can more than easily give.
Charity is more than monetary.
A sacrifice is most sincere and meaningful when it requires effort and a little compromising and accomodation on our part, for the sake of Islam, God and eleviation of the suffering that others go through. Donating to the mosque is hardly difficult for a person who can afford it. Instead of sending a cheque to the mosque or the orphanage can we perhaps take the time to help in the administration of the mosque, in its maintanence, spending a day with the orphans, helping out or even voluntarily teaching at religious schools. Most of all, Allah will look upon you fondly, Inshallah, for prolonging the life of a fellow human being. Giving a second chance at life to a person could mean so many things.