Members of the public are invited to participate in Giving Tuesday on Dec. 3, as well as giving throughout the holiday season.
The first Tuesday following the American Thanksgiving has been referred to as Giving Tuesday since 2012. The event was started by the 92nd Street Y in New York City, the United Nations Foundation and the technology website Mashable as a response to the commercialization of the holiday season and consumerism. Today, Giving Tuesday harnesses the generosity of millions of people around the world and helps millions of dollars to find their way into the coffers of organizations. Giving Tuesday seeks to inspire people to volunteer or give back to causes that are near to their hearts.
Thanks to technology, giving has the capacity to go viral and inspire others to engage in their own charitable efforts. Since its inception, Giving Tuesday has evolved. The event now underscores how communities can harness the power of people working together to elicit great change.
Even though Giving Tuesday may be the catalyst for charitable efforts, people are urged to be generous all year long, including throughout the holiday season. Community members may consider trying the following methods to give more in the coming weeks.
They may pay it forward by treating someone behind them in the checkout line to coffee, fast food, or a candy bar. Recipients of this gesture may do the same and keep the generosity going.
People may keep extra dollars in their pocket and contribute to charities seeking donations outside of stores. A cup of coffee or hot chocolate will help to warm up the people manning the collection pots, as well.
Readers may adopt a family in need and purchase some gifts on the family members' wish list. Many community centers and churches have contacts for families in need that could use support this season.
Giving can be the focus of the holiday season in ways that are meaningful to the people on the receiving end of the generosity.
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