In the midst of the holiday shopping frenzy, Giving Tuesday emerges as a beacon of compassion and generosity. Falling on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, Giving Tuesday encourages people to shift their focus from the consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday to charitable giving. This global movement invites individuals, communities, and businesses to come together and make a positive impact.

What is Giving Tuesday?

Giving Tuesday is a global generosity movement that began in 2012. Its purpose is to harness the power of social media and collaboration to inspire people to give back, whether through acts of kindness, donations, or volunteer work. It serves as a reminder that the holiday season is not just about receiving, but also about extending a helping hand to those in need.

How Can You Participate?

Participating in Giving Tuesday is simple — and it doesn’t always have to require a monetary contribution. Here are some ways readers and shoppers can get involved:

1. Volunteer Your Time: Give the gift of your time by volunteering at local shelters, food banks, or community organizations. Your presence can make a significant impact on those less fortunate.
2. Spread the Word: Utilize your social media platforms to raise awareness about Giving Tuesday. Share information about your chosen charity, encourage others to participate, and use relevant hashtags to join the global conversation.
3. Donate to Charities: Research and find reputable charities aligned with causes close to your heart. Many organizations offer online platforms for easy and secure donations.

Suggestions to Get Involved:

1. Host a Virtual Fundraiser: Organize a virtual event or fundraiser to gather support from friends, family, and colleagues. Platforms like Facebook and GoFundMe make it easy to set up campaigns.
2. Random Acts of Kindness: Engage in small, random acts of kindness throughout the day, such as paying for someone’s coffee, leaving uplifting notes, or offering assistance to those in need.
3. Support Brands with a Purpose:
   • Amazon: Amazon is holding an American Red Cross blood drive at the Culver Theater in Culver City, California this Giving Tuesday.
   • Birdy Grey: The DTC bridal brand is donating $5,000 total to seven organizations this Giving Tuesday, including South Chico Community Assistance Center, True North Housing Alliance, Second Harvest Food Bank Orange County, World Central Kitchen, No Kid Hungry, Hunger Action LA, and World Food Programme.
   • Bombas: With every purchase you make from Bombas, they will donate an item to a homeless shelter and people in need.
   • DIFF Eyewear: For Giving Tuesday, DIFF Eyewear is committed to doing even more by “doubling your impact” funding twice as many sight-saving treatments such as eye exams, surgeries, medication, and more for every customer order.
   • Hai: Hai is offering a $25 discount on all purchases in addition to contributing $25 to Clean the World, one of the leading global hygiene foundations dedicated to providing clean water, soap, and hygiene kits for those in need.
   • Kohl’s: Kohl’s is giving $5 million in grants to 200 nonprofits nationwide — each of which was encouraged to apply by a Kohl’s associate — in support of improving family health and wellness.
   • Nordstrom: Nordstrom is partnering with Operation Warm to give more than 1,900 kids brand-new coats from coast to coast through elementary schools in New York, Chicago, Seattle, Denver, and Atlanta. They have also supported more than 180 Littles, through Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, with memorable shopping moments at Nordstrom Racks across the country. Customers can purchase a Sponsor-a-Moment tag at all Nordstrom Rack stores or add a donation online at checkout at NordstromRack.com.
   • Thistle Farms: Shop Thistle Farms’ “Justice” candle, where 100% of the proceeds will go towards providing resources for those who’ve been affected by poverty, exploitation, addiction, and incarceration around the world.
   • Toms Shoes: Toms is giving back by donating one-third of its profits to grassroots social good organizations in support of mental health, ending gun violence, and increasing access to opportunity.
   • Michael Kors: Whenever you buy a Watch Hunger Stop shirt or tote from Michael Kors, 100% of the profits will go towards the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). And for every Watch Hunger Stop watch that is purchased, 200 meals will be donated to the WFP.

This Giving Tuesday, let’s come together to make a difference, no matter how big or small. Whether it’s through a donation, volunteering, or supporting socially responsible brands, every act of kindness contributes to a brighter and more compassionate world — and a happier holiday season for all.