By- Angela Padrón With recent advancements in technology, it is possible to reach anyone, anywhere around the world, in seconds. This makes it easier to reach out to people who may be suffering or less fortunate. After all the Thanksgiving turkey has been eaten and people have taken advantage of Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, it’s time to take a step back and ask what we can do for others. In the true spirit of Thanksgiving, the National Day of Giving was created in order to address the needs of people in all parts of our country and the globe. The National Day of Giving, or #GivingTuesday, takes place on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday.
In 2012, the Belfer Center for Innovation and Social Impact created the idea in conjunction with New York’s 92nd Street Y, which is a cultural center that has focused on service and giving for over 100 years. They joined forces with the United Nations Foundation to collaborate with other entities— nonprofits, civic organizations, business, and corporations – around the world to participate in philanthropic events and provide resources to those in need. People and organizations across different sectors provide their expertise, time, and talents while encouraging giving and celebrating the notion of caring for others. As of today, 98 countries have been involved in #GivingTuesday. The event has raised over $177 million and received 1,640,000 gifts.
This year, the National Day of Giving will take place on November 28th. Here are some ways that you as an individual can participate:
- Look for non-profit organizations in your community and volunteer to help
- Donate to your favorite charity
- Donate part of your paycheck to a charity or organization on a recurring basis
- Participate in a My Giving Story contest and win $1,000 for a charity of your choice
- Lend your voice to speak out for a cause or make a speech in support of a nonprofit organization
- Help out at a local shelter, food bank, orphanage, or other place for people in need
At school, students, teachers, and families can also get involved in many ways:
- Hold a school-wide fundraiser to donate to a designated charity
- Emphasize giving through social media using the hashtag #GivingTuesday
- Organize a blood drive, clothing drive, toy drive, book drive, or other giving activity
- Have students sign up to volunteer at a local charity or organization
By using social media and the hashtag #GivingTuesday, people can find ways to help others in their local communities or around the world. The more people who give their time, money, and support, the better off others in the world will be.
