When I read Peter Singer’s book “The Life You Can Save,” I realized that I spend money on things I don’t need when I could be helping other people who need it more than I do. One significant expenditure came to mind: grabbing lunch in New York City every weekday costs $5-10. If I just started making food at home instead of eating at restaurants or buying takeout, the dollars I’d save could really add up.

So I decided to cook up something new each week and donate the savings to a worthy charity. Hopefully I’ll learn a little bit about cooking, do some good for the world, and not adversely affect my bank account in the process. Everyone wins!

And hey, feel free to play along at home. You can make the pledge at www.thelifeyoucansave.com. I promise you it’s a rewarding experience.