Giving on This Tuesday

#GivingTuesday

By Corey Welcher, Volunteer Contributor

This month kicks off the winter season for demonstrating good will towards our fellow man. We hear it in the marketing for holiday sales, in social media, on the news, in our places of worship, and schools. To many people, "giving" means to provide someone else with money, a helping hand, food, clothing, shoes, and so on. A virtuous thought, but making time to give can be difficult in the hustle and bustle of the season. Luckily, thanks to an idea called "Giving Tuesday," considering others is much easier and fun, too!

Today is Giving Tuesday, the second year for what is considered the National Philanthropy Day in the United States. On this exciting day, people like you, businesses, and organizations raise awareness for causes they believe in by donating money, organizing hands-on community events, and providing resources to help you stay in the spirit of giving throughout the year. Last year, over 2,500 businesses and organizations participated and so far there are at least 5,400 in the U.S. and across the world. The word is out - giving is IN.

I'm excited about this day and invite you to think about giving a little differently this year. Giving is not just about money. Money is tight for many people this year. If you're not able to contribute financially to a cause, contribute your time by spreading the word about your favorite cause. Get other people interested! This is a day to take time to give back to your community in a variety of ways. We will see positive changes in our community by taking just a little time to consider someone other than ourselves today. You can do it. Get out there and start giving!

Pick a cause: What cause is close to your heart?

Spread the word - tell your friends about a cause that matters to you.  Post some information and a website link on your social media networks. Talk about it at lunch, over coffee with friends, and at dinner with your family. Volunteer.

Check out the #GivingTuesday website, which has a lot of ideas and causes to get you thinking about how you can contribute to your community in a positive way.  Join the movement and happy giving!