How to participate in Giving Tuesday

Published 7:59 am Sunday, December 8, 2024

The excitement of the holiday season is palpable. Many look forward to this time of year to deck their homes in lights and find gifts that delight friends and family.

The spirit of giving that permeates the holiday season extends to Giving Tuesday, which follows the year’s busiest shopping days. According to the Giving Tuesday website, the movement “reimagines a world built upon shared humanity and generosity.” Organizers believe generosity is the avenue through which humanity can collectively strengthen its social fabric. Those who would like to harness the spirit of charitable giving can explore these ways to give back.

Get involved where it started

Giving Tuesday started with a team from the Belfer Center for Innovative & Social Impact in New York City. In November 2012, these individuals implored nonprofits, influencers and businesses to inspire others to get involved with acts of giving. The organization has many initiatives that people can support in addition to the original Giving Tuesday. Learn more online (92ny.org/belfer-center).

Plant a community garden

Food insecurity is a problem in many neighborhoods across the country. Petition local city councils to dedicate a portion of green spaces to a community garden that grows produce for those who need it. This can foster a sense of camaraderie in communities.

Start a caremongering movement

Caremongering began as a community-led social movement to address health and social needs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. Caremongering is designed to help vulnerable people and can include anything from grocery shopping for those with mobility issues to virtual or physical socializing with others to combat social isolation. Those who want to caremonger can do many other things, like run emergency errands or help with childcare.

Donate goods and supplies

Areas of the southern United States experienced extreme devastation with the one-two punch of hurricanes Helene and Milton in early October. Natural disasters can displace families and push individuals to the brink as supplies become scarce. Recovery efforts in areas wiped out by these storms will likely take months, underscoring the importance of continued support via donations and volunteer efforts.