Today the Wal-Mart Foundation announced its annual giving numbers from last year. More than $423 million in cash and in-kind gifts. That's a number that makes me very proud to be a Wal-Mart associate!

I had the pleasure of speaking with Margaret McKenna, president of the Wal-Mart Foundation, on the heels of Wal-Mart's annual giving announcement.

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Tara:  It's no secret that Wal-Mart prides itself in being a store of the community that gives back locally. Given the current economy, how have we stepped up our efforts to help?

Margaret:  As the economy changed, I wrote a letter to store managers asking for their help. I asked that our stores help us shift our giving strategy to refocus on efforts that support those hit hardest by the financial crisis. We discussed the importance of focusing on hunger, homelessness, day care and job training. We've also stepped up our efforts by continuing to give, in fact we announced that we increased our giving by nearly 30 percent over last year. As always, we'll continue to look for opportunities to give in the upcoming year.

Tara:  The Wal-Mart Foundation gets so many requests for donations. How does the Foundation decide where to give?

Margaret:  We've traditionally focused on organizations that support education, workforce development, economic opportunity, environmental sustainability, and health and wellness. Now, as I mentioned, we're emphasizing basic need areas. We look for organizations that sustain. The best way to describe this is the analogy, "give someone a fish and they'll eat for a day. Teach someone to fish and they'll eat for a lifetime." All that to say, we look for organizations that create long-term opportunities for people to live better. Job skills training and education are good examples.

Tara:  You've encouraged associates to step up volunteer hours this year? Why do you think it's important?

Margaret:  Giving back is important all the time. While we can't always give by opening up our wallets, we can give of our time and nonprofits are always looking for qualified and enthusiastic volunteers. Additionally, there are statistics that discuss how depression and anxiety can become widespread during times of recession. Giving back is a rewarding way to boost spirits, whether you're doing it on your own or as a group. I think it's especially rewarding to see someone get matched with a nonprofit that fits their interest. I'd encourage our associates and customers to gauge their areas of expertise and interest--then find a local organization that aligns with what they've come up with.

Tara:  Anything else you'd like to share following the Foundation's announcement about last year’s giving?

Margaret:  Of course we're encouraged to be able to announce that we've increased giving over last year, especially in light of the current economy. However, I think it's most important to look at the bigger picture. At Wal-Mart we feel incredibly honored that customers continue to shop at our stores and that we're able to help them save money and live better. In closing, I guess it's most appropriate to thank our customers, associates and colleagues who help support our charitable efforts. It's amazingly rewarding to do the work that we do, and it's our responsibility to continue supporting community organizations in the upcoming year.

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While we don’t spend a lot of time on Check Out discussing our Foundation, listening to Margaret reminded me to review and upgrade my own volunteerism and donation efforts - and that, friends, holds true daily and not just around the holidays. It's clear that now, more than ever, "extra" is needed for those in need.

I'd be interested in hearing from readers ... How have you been finding ways to give back?