Making the Most of Giving Tuesday
It’s that time of year again—the time of giving! But sometimes, the frenzy of shopping for our loved ones on Black Friday and Cyber Monday can overshadow helping those in need. And so Giving Tuesday was born! Giving Tuesday is the global day of giving that reminds us there’s more to the holiday season than just maxing out our credit cards. It’s when we switch gears from consumerism to altruism. But how can you make the most of this special day without feeling overwhelmed by the endless causes vying for your attention? Let’s take a look.
What is Giving Tuesday?
Giving Tuesday was born out of the simple idea: after two days of spending on ourselves, why not have a day dedicated to giving back? It’s a day when individuals, businesses, and communities come together to support causes close to their hearts. Whether it’s donating money, volunteering time, or spreading awareness, Giving Tuesday is all about making the world a better place. And honestly, who doesn’t want to be part of something that awesome?
Tip #1: Plan Ahead
We all know the key to a successful Black Friday is having a game plan (and maybe a well-timed elbow or two). The same goes for Giving Tuesday. Take some time to research and identify causes that resonate with you. This way, you won’t be swayed by the last-minute pleas that flood your inbox. Plus, planning ahead means you can budget your donations without any nasty surprises in January. Financial wisdom for the win!
Tip #2: Double Your Impact with Matching Gifts
Many companies offer to match employee donations on Giving Tuesday, effectively doubling your contribution. So before you donate, check if your employer has a matching gift program—it’s free money to a cause you care about!
Tip #3: Volunteer Your Time
Not all giving has to be monetary. Your time is valuable too! Many organizations need volunteers, especially during the holiday season. Whether it’s serving meals at a shelter, wrapping gifts for a toy drive, or offering your professional skills pro bono, volunteering is a fantastic way to give back. And let’s be real, it’s also a great excuse to escape from your in-laws for a few hours.
Tip #4: Spread the Word
In the age of social media, spreading the word about your favorite causes has never been easier. Use your platform to raise awareness and encourage others to join in. Share your Giving Tuesday plans and experiences online with the hashtag #GivingTuesday. Who knows, you might inspire someone else to give, and that’s a win-win!
Tip #5: Get the Whole Family Involved
Giving Tuesday is a great opportunity to teach the younger generation about the importance of philanthropy. Get the kids involved by having them choose a charity to support, or organize a family volunteer day. It’s a wonderful way to bond and instill the values of generosity and kindness. Plus, if you’re like me, you might think at times that your teens can be a little bit self-absorbed (Ella and Seren would never!). This gives your kids an opportunity to think of others and will hopefully instill a bit of gratitude in them.
Conclusion: Make Your Giving Count
Giving Tuesday is a wonderful reminder that the holiday season is about more than just shopping sprees and holiday parties. By planning ahead, taking advantage of matching gifts, volunteering your time, spreading the word, and involving your family, you can make the most of this global day of giving. And if you’re feeling a bit lost or need some personalized advice on how to maximize your charitable impact, I’m always here to help! (jennifer.jenkins@bluestonewp.com)
