That is a tough one! Right in my area its a kill shelter so thats where we have adopted from the last 3 times. But I also donate to rescue shelters.
Its sad that some shelters hardly have enough help to keep open and the next place has too many helpers!
Most shelters kill/non kill look for donations of other items besides money and hands on. Last Christmas I brought a whole shopping bag of gifts for the cats/dogs. I stared way ahead and would check out the clearence items, sale items and in grocery store the carts with mark downs of pet toys it was so much fun and it was a good feeling to bring at the holidays.
I think that Souraya will be looking for helpers soon! LOL (she is filling in for Aly).