Giving Tuesday 2016: How You Can Help

By: Julia Archer, Redstart Creative 

The holiday season has arrived and with it has come a flurry of ads for Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Small Business Saturday! With so much getting and giving happening in the next few months, it’s only right that a holiday to give back happens right in the midst of it all. Giving Tuesday is the Tuesday after Thanksgiving and falls on November 29th this year. It is a global day of giving that is fueled by the social media hashtag, #GivingTuesday.

This day is a time when communities, individuals and organizations come together to raise awareness for the causes that matter to them. In 2015, over 700,000 people participated in the online event, raising more than $116 million! Maryland, in particular, has a history of giving a lot on Giving Tuesday. In one week last year, $6 million was raised! However, Giving Tuesday isn’t just about monetary donations. Those who wish to participate are urged to give what they can, whether that be money, their time or their voice.

On November 29th, play whatever part you can to give back to your community or the world. Even if you can’t donate, here are some ideas that still allow you to participate:

• Post an #UnSelfie and explain how/why you’re giving back on Nov. 29th.
• Volunteer at your favorite organization/food bank or shelter.
• Donate unwanted clothes to a shelter.
• Donate canned goods to a food bank near you.
• Share a cause you’re passionate about on social media.

No matter how you help on November 29th, know that your voice matters. Speak up, speak out and let’s work together to make the world a better place! We are happy to work with a number of nonprofits who are doing great things in the world. Please take a look at these causes when considering where to donate on November 29th.