A Culture Of "We"

It is important to me to establish a culture of "we" in a relationship. I got very lucky in the respect that my girlfriend is very selfless and believes in doing a lot for others and not just me. She gives her time and energy to friends, family, and other causes very freely. Her efforts are very inspirational to me. My cause has evidently become my roommate without me even realizing it until a couple of days ago. However, there is a huge difference between a cause and a charity. I believe a cause is willing to help themselves whereas a charity is something you try to support but is dependent on the support of others. What happens when you stop supporting that charity? It has to depend on someone else to support itself while you can donate your time and energy to something that gives back and makes itself worthwhile.