After a week of Thanksgiving celebrations and indulgence in food and spending, Giving Tuesday serves as a reminder of what matters most: generosity. Generosity can mean an array of things, so this Giving Tuesday we want to remind you of the small things you can do to make a big difference in someoneโs day or life.
Remember, everyone has something to give โ whether itโs helping a neighbor with a project, showing up for someone, or giving some of what you have to those who need help.
Use your online presence to spread awareness: Itโs time to put your hundreds of followers to good use. Post on your social media profiles how youโre celebrating #GivingTuesday this year and encourage others to join you. Share volunteer photos, the kind gesture you did or received today, or share a donation link for a cause thatโs close to your heart. Be the inspiration someone needs to join in the movement!
Donate your credit card rewards: Believe it or not, some people struggle with deciding what to do with all the credit card cash back rewards theyโve accumulated. If youโre in a stable financial spot, consider paying it forward. Many credit card companies offer the option to donate your rewards directly to charity โ and some even match your contribution on Giving Tuesday. Or cash out your rewards for a grocery store gift card and donate it to a family in need. Something that may seem invaluable to you could make all the difference for someone else.
Donate blood: This may not be something that immediately comes to mind for most, but is extremely important, helpful, easy, and always in need. Even better โ it only takes a few minutes. What better gift is there than the ability to save a life?
Use your skill or talent: Reach out to friends, family, neighbors, and community groups to see if your services could be of use to others. If youโre a teacher or A+ student, provide tutoring services to a struggling students. If youโre a carpenter, perhaps a family thatโs fallen on hard times could use some help with home repairs. If you have a snow plow, reach out to an elderly person and let them know youโll take care of them when snow falls.
Eat at a small business: Switch up your morning routine and go to a small coffee shop instead of opting for the easy drive-thru. Even better, do the same for lunch and dinner, and grab a gift card as an early Christmas gift for someone to enjoy a delicious meal at a place they may not normally try out. Take the extra step and share your great experience in an online review on their social media page.
Donate household items: Clothing, toys, furniture, kitchenware, electronics โ you name it, your local thrift store or donation facility will probably take it. Do some research on local donation services and choose one with a mission that is close to your heart. That winter coat youโve outgrown can keep someone warm and those old blankets in your closet can be a cozy bed at an animal shelter.
Send a handwritten letter to someone: Get a head-start on your holiday cards this year by writing a letter to an old friend, family member you havenโt seen in a while, or a nursing home resident. Donโt overthink it โ simply let them know youโre thinking of them and give them well wishes. If youโre in a time pinch, a text or phone call can do the job, too.
Donate to your community food pantry: Take any unused canned goods in your cabinets to the local food pantry. In November, food collections are easier to find than you may think. Many businesses, churches, and other public buildings have donation bins set up in the lobby for the public to donate. Clean out your cupboards and help those in need โ itโs a win-win! Having trouble finding one? Coordinate one at your job!
Make baked goods for your local fire station, police station, church, or school: Looking for an excuse to make more of your delicious holiday cookies? Run some over to a local volunteer organization or line of work you want to show your appreciation to โ itโs sure to brighten their day! If you canโt leave the house, your mailperson would probably like a treat! Small gestures to recognize the services they provide go a long way.
Nominate someone for an award: Do you have an amazing boss, a coworker that goes above and beyond, or fantastic teacher at your childโs school? If you know someone whose work makes a big difference and deserves to be noticed, consider nominating that individual for an award. Do some research โ thereโs numerous organizations that do this regularly, like radio stations or newspapers.
The best part about Giving Tuesday, you ask? It doesnโt have to be a one day event. If your day is jam-packed, donโt panic. The whole purpose is to focus on charity and kindness after a few days of frivolous spending. We all have something to give โ get creative, be kind, make an impact, and have a wonderful Giving Tuesday!
