Giving Tuesday is an annual global holiday and media campaign celebrating philanthropy, generosity, and community. Now an independent non-profit, Giving Tuesday was created to inspire the world with “a day that encourages people to do good.” It is referred to online as #GivingTuesday, or sometimes Gifting Tuesday or the National Day of Giving.
When is #GivingTuesday?
With so much attention placed on Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday, it’s easy to get lost in the mashed potatoes and “INCREDIBLE SALES!” and forget the true purpose of the holiday season—giving! While Thanksgiving is reserved for feasting, and Black Friday and Cyber Monday are reserved for shopping, there was no day dedicated to giving back. That’s why Giving Tuesday, which takes place on the first Tuesday after the U.S. Thanksgiving, was created, to welcome in the holiday season, every year with charity.
Since its creation in 2012 at the 92nd Street Y and its Belfer Center for Innovation & Social Impact in New York City, this movement has captured global attention, inspiring hundreds of millions of people to get involved in their communities, and celebrate generosity.
#GivingTuesday Ideas
With so many organizations, communities, and countries around the globe involved and so many causes to support, there are countless ways to get involved with this feel-good holiday.
Nearly every non-profit in the United States has a #GivingTuesday campaign. Check in with your favorite charity. Do they need volunteers? Are they calling for donations to meet a specific end-of-year fundraising goal? Or maybe you can start your own fundraiser for a cause that means something to you? Facebook and GoFundme make great platforms to raise money for charity. If you own a business or run a club, consider gathering your customers, employees, or members to create an event or give-back-day unique to your organization.
As a Queens cancer support non-profit with deep roots in our local community, we know that it’s our neighbors and fellow citizens that truly make a difference in the lives of those who need the support most. Our cancer survivors and thrivers help those who have just been diagnosed. Every moment that you can volunteer or small donation you can make to help those around you makes a difference. We have seen it!
How will you make a difference this holiday season?