Giving Tuesday, November 30, is a global giving movement driven by individuals, charities, businesses, and communities across the United States, Canada and in countries around the world.
Giving Tuesday is the world’s largest generosity movement and is considered by many as the opening day of the giving season. Giving Tuesday continues to gain traction across the country in its ninth year, with thousands of partner organizations and millions of Canadians expected to take part.
Since 2013, Giving Tuesday has united millions of Americans to support and champion the causes they believe in and the communities in which they live.
The impact of Giving Tuesday goes well beyond charitable donations, inspiriting giving in all its forms. From coast to coast to coast, people are embracing this day as an opportunity to raise money for local charities and non-profits, run food and clothing drives, give blood, encourage kindness, help a neighbor, and celebrate generosity.
At a time when many are still experiencing the continued effects of the pandemic, Giving Tuesday is an opportunity for people around the world to stand together in unity– to use their individual power of generosity to remain connected and heal.
Giving Tuesday starts tomorrow — are you prepared today?
Janette Phillips, executive director, Share Detroit, champions the spirit of giving in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties on Giving Tuesday and all year long.
As Executive Director of SHARE Detroit, Phillips helps donors and volunteers identify causes to support from the nearly 300 nonprofits on Share Detroit’s platform. She has her finger on the pulse of nonprofits, including their mission and their needs.
“As the year draws to a close, many are looking for ways to give back and support nonprofit organizations in our local community. In the U.S., the Tuesday after Thanksgiving is designated as Giving Tuesday; this day is often considered the unofficial start of the holiday giving season. Giving Tuesday and the holiday season are wonderful times to learn, give and do good in your community. When making a donation to a nonprofit organization, you are investing in their work, mission and vision. It can be incredibly rewarding to donate to a nonprofit whose mission aligns with your personal goals,” Phillips said. “Share Detroit recommends doing your research to ensure your gift is aligned with a nonprofit’s mission.”
Here are some tips for doing good this holiday season:
Explore online: Learn more about these organizations by visiting their websites and social media sites. Check out available videos to understand their mission and the people they serve.
Visit in person: If you have time, plan a quick visit; tours provide a rewarding hands-on opportunity to see the nonprofit in action.
Make Connections: Whether via a site visit, social media, or a simple phone call, get to know the people behind the nonprofit. It is always the people that make an organization special.
Check their finances: Nonprofits are very transparent about their finances. Documentation like 990s and annual budgets are often posted on websites or use Charity Navigator or GuideStar to feel confident that the nonprofit is a good steward of its donations.
Check out Amazon wish lists: Nonprofits often need specific items. Donating items using the Amazon Wishlist will send these items directly to the nonprofit, making a tangible impact.
Volunteer: Volunteering is probably the best way to get a feel for the work nonprofits do and the people they impact.
Attend an upcoming event: Find something fun to do with your family, co-workers, or your child’s youth groups.
About Post Author
