The season of giving is here! Beginning in 2012, Giving Tuesday was created as a day encouraging people to do good on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving. It has since grown into a year-round global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. Check out the history of the holiday here and then read on for ways to get involved!
1. Donate Food
Contribute to a local food bank or organize a food drive in your community. Many people struggle with food insecurity, and your donation can make a significant difference.
2. Give Blood
Consider donating blood at a local blood drive or blood donation center. Many organizations, such as the Red Cross, are often in need of blood donations to support those in medical need.
3. Start a Fundraiser
Start a fundraising campaign on platforms like GoFundMe, Facebook, or other crowdfunding websites. Rally your friends, family, and colleagues to contribute to a specific cause.
Take the time to learn more about the issues and challenges faced by the causes you support. Share this information with others to raise awareness and inspire action.
4. Adopt a Family
Contact local charities or community organizations that facilitate “Adopt a Family” programs during the holiday season. Provide gifts, food, and other essentials to a family in need.
5. Volunteer
Offer your time and skills to a local charity or community organization. Many nonprofits need volunteers for various tasks, and your help can make a significant difference.
Many charities and non-profit organizations have special events or volunteer opportunities on Giving Tuesday. Find one that aligns with your interests and skills.
6. Host a #GivingTuesday Party
Organize a virtual event, such as a webinar, livestream, or online auction, to raise funds and awareness for a cause. Use the power of technology to connect with a wider audience.
Use your social media platforms to raise awareness about Giving Tuesday and your chosen causes. Share information about the organizations you support and encourage your friends and followers to get involved.
7. Get Cleaning
Take the initiative to organize a clean-up event in your neighborhood. Gather friends, family, and neighbors to pick up litter, clean public spaces, or beautify a local area.
Contribute to organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and clean-up efforts. Your donation can help fund initiatives to protect and preserve natural resources.
If you live near a coast, consider participating in or organizing a beach clean-up. Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable to pollution, and your efforts can have a direct impact on marine ecosystems.
8. Spread Kindness
Perform random acts of kindness throughout the day. This could include buying coffee for a stranger, helping someone in need, or leaving uplifting notes in public spaces. Acts of kindness can have a ripple effect.
9. Donate Money
Choose a cause or organization that you are passionate about and make a donation. Many nonprofits run special campaigns or have matching donors on Giving Tuesday, maximizing the impact of your contribution.
If you’re part of a company or organization, propose a Giving Tuesday initiative. Encourage colleagues to donate to a chosen cause, volunteer together, or participate in a workplace clean-up project.
10. Support Small Businesses
If possible, choose to support local businesses and restaurants on Giving Tuesday. Your purchases can contribute to the local economy, and you can encourage these businesses to get involved in charitable activities.
Choose to spend your money on businesses that are committed to social and environmental responsibility. Your purchases can support companies that prioritize sustainability and community well-being.
Bonus: #Unselfies
Join the #Unselfie movement by taking a photo of yourself performing an act of kindness or supporting a cause. Share it on social media with a caption explaining why you’re giving and encourage others to do the same.
Why not also develop a long-term giving plan that goes beyond Giving Tuesday? Consider making a commitment to regular donations, volunteering, or other forms of support throughout the year.
Remember, the spirit of Giving Tuesday is about coming together as a global community to give back. Whether you contribute financially, volunteer your time, or spread the word, every action counts.
