Each November, individuals, businesses, religious organizations, and others will participate in a global day of generosity known as GivingTuesday.
The movement helps to raise billions of dollars for those in need as well as spread awareness for some of the country’s most deserving causes. If you’re interested in being a part of this wave of hope or simply looking for ways to make this holiday season more meaningful, here are a few ways you can celebrate Giving Tuesday 2024.
What Is GivingTuesday?
The first GivingTuesday was launched in 2012 by the 92nd Street Y in New York City and the United Nations Foundation. Although the movement made a huge impact, the idea was simple: encouraging people to do good for those around them.
As the idea grew and more people joined in, it has gained national recognition. Giving Tuesday is now held on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving. This year, it will be held on December 3, 2024.
5 Ways To Celebrate Giving Tuesday
The true spirit behind Giving Tuesday is the idea of “radical generosity,” which is “the concept that the suffering of others should be just as intolerable to us as our own suffering.”
There are endless ways for you to celebrate generosity, but to help narrow down your options, here are 5 easy ways you can be a part of Giving Tuesday.
1. Donate
When it comes to “radical generosity,” the first thing that springs to mind is probably donating to a nonprofit organization or adopting a family in need. Last year, donations on Giving Tuesday surpassed $3 billion!
And even though online donations are a great way of helping a worthy cause, “donating” doesn’t always have to mean “raising money.”
Donating clothing, food, unused airline miles or even hotel points can help Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida® in its mission to grant wishes to critically ill children. We even accept in-kind donations of certain skills, such as landscaping or furniture assembly.
2. Plan a Fundraiser
By combining multiple donations, fundraisers can do more good than you ever thought possible.
Fundraising can be as elaborate as you want—from hosting an event to a social media post asking for donations. If you own a business, get your entire staff involved by making a pledge to match donations to the cause of your choice.
3. Volunteer
Volunteers are the backbone of any nonprofit organization, but volunteering can also be an incredibly rewarding way to give back—not just on GivingTuesday, but all year!
Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida has a wide range of volunteer opportunities that are perfect for all interest levels.
4. Raise Awareness
Sometimes, all it takes to spark a change is to spread the word, whether you’re promoting a favorite cause or just raising awareness about Giving Tuesday.
Ask your employer, house of worship, club, or another organization about planning an event or fundraiser. Make a social media post about your favorite charity. Post links to your donation page to make your fundraiser a success.
5. Shop Consciously
Giving Tuesday takes place right after Black Friday and Cyber Monday, which means it’s right in the middle of the holiday shopping season. Why not recognize both days and fill out your shopping list with gifts that give back?
Purchasing from Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida’s promotional partners is an easy way to pick up gifts that help contribute to our mission of granting wishes to deserving children.
Spread the Word About Giving Tuesday 2024
During the holidays, it’s easy to get caught up in your ever-growing to-do list. But GivingTuesday serves as a reminder of the true reasons for the season—spreading joy and kindness.
At Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida, we are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those grappling with life-threatening illness. This Giving Tuesday, donations to Make-A-Wish will help us reach our goal of granting 425 wishes throughout the Central and Northern Florida area.
To get involved, contact a local chapter near you.