Giving Tuesday

Deborah Goldstein

 

 

This year Giving Tuesday is Dec 2, just after Thanksgiving and a slew of consumer-focused days. What began in 2012 to encourage people to do good has become a global movement. According to the GivingTuesday website, “Giving Tuesday reimagines a world built upon shared humanity and generosity.” Over the years it has inspired millions of acts of kindness and dollars in giving. If you’d like to be a part of things this year, here are ideas to get started.

 

Think of the 5 Ts of Giving:

Time. Giving time can be as simple as helping a school, picking up trash around your neighborhood, or helping a neighbor with a grocery run or moving trash bins.

 

Talent. Everyone has special skills. Perhaps yours could help an organization in need. . . with event planning or promotion, food/toy drive sorting/packing/delivering, or helping with a holiday fundraiser.

 

Ties. Do you have a friend or family member who would like to join you? Giving with others is always more fun!

 

Testimonial. Do you have a favorite nonprofit? Sing their praises in person or via social media. They’ll appreciate the shoutout!

 

Treasure. Donating cash more doable? It’s always appreciated and helpful. Give your own funds or hold a fundraiser, like collecting cans/bottles or hosting a bake sale.

 

If your family is gathering for Thanksgiving, consider a conversation about participating in Giving Tuesday (together or individually) and/or nonprofits that have impacted your lives.

Give thanks for their contributions to the community.

 

If you’d like to join in, here are a few action tips.

1 Decide who’s giving. Are you giving as individuals or a group?

2 Choose your recipient. Talk about what’s important to your family. What do you value and want to support? If you need ideas for giving locally, check out Eugene Weekly’s Give Guide at eugeneweekly.com.

3 GIVE! However you choose to give, have fun! And remember: organizations need your support as much on Giving Tuesday as the rest of the year, so feel free to give all year long!

 

 

Deborah Goldstein believes that anyone can be a philanthropist and is happy to work with you or your family. Learn more at enlightenedphilanthropy.com.