November 23, 2020
Learn How You Can Give Back on Giving Tuesday.
Observed the week after Thanksgiving, Giving Tuesday has taken on additional meaning in 2020 as we think about ways of giving back to the community in the middle of a tumultuous year. Read on to learn about how Giving Tuesday evolved this year to include #GivingTuesdayNow, providing new opportunities to support social impact organizations, as well as people in your own community.
What Is Giving Tuesday?
Giving Tuesday was created in 2012 by the 92nd Street Y, a New York City-based community center. The event was originally held on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, following Black Friday's consumer push earlier in the week. Then COVID-19 hit the world, and community needs became even more urgent.
In response, #GivingTuesdayNow was held on May 5 in the U.S. and more than 145 countries. The event proved a tremendous success, bringing in more than $500 million in online donations.
What You Can Do On
Contrary to popular belief, the day doesn't exclusively revolve around donating money to organizations in need (although that>give your time by volunteering (both virtually and in-person), donating goods and sharing your talents.
Or maybe you find that you really shine on social media channels, helping galvanize folks to find ways to help out. If that's the case, check out this social media toolkit. Be sure to take an #UNselfie, and share your story of what the day means to you.
What Giving Tuesday Looks Like in 2020
Even though #GivingTuesdayNow took place in May, the annual Giving Tuesday will still be held on Dec. 1. Want to make a big impact?? Consider starting a giving circle, where individuals or groups pool their money or time together, and then decide which charity, community or nonprofit group to support. Learn more about joining an existing giving circle, or decide to create your own (remember, you can also do so virtually).
Do Your Research
There are so many worthy organizations that it can be difficult to know where to start. First, visit a nonprofit research site like Charity Navigator or Guidestar to research organizations based on location, category, impact and results. You can also peruse tips for giving during a time of crisis and learn about ways in which your contribution will go farthest.
Make a Difference in Your Own Backyard
You can also impact your own community by creating “care kits" for homeless folks. Items like individually wrapped food, bottles of water, socks and personal hygiene items will all go a long way for those who lack shelter and resources during this especially tough time of year. These items are especially helpful for those who are vulnerable if you want to pack your own kits to distribute or commit to volunteering at a homeless shelter near you. What are some ways you plan on giving during Giving Tuesday?
