Save the date December 1, 2020!

Giving Tuesday was founded in 2012 by New York’s 92nd Street Y in partnership with the United Nations Foundation. In July 2019, Giving Tuesday spun out into its own organization, led by Giving Tuesday co-founder, Asha Curran, as its CEO.

Something that started as a small idea for a day to “do good” back in 2012 has grown into something global. A change of heart, an attitude to be kind to others, a desire to help someone in some small way or perhaps in a way that would be life changing. The beauty is you get to decide. You get to decide, what and how to give.

Each of us has a unique gift or talent we can use to help another person. It can be something as small and inexpensive as a smile or a compliment to a stranger, or as extravagant as donating a large sum of money to a charity that you feel strongly about. Perhaps you can’t give financially, but you can give of your time and serve at a soup kitchen, at your local school or seniors home. Maybe you can visit your neighbour (who is alone or newly widowed) or write them an encouraging note. Especially during this time of COVID there are so many people isolated that need encouragement; to feel like they haven’t been forgotten. Perhaps its giving the single mom or dad a day out while you watch their kids for free.

It can take some imagination and collaboration to do something on a larger scale, something that can change your community, as seen by the statistics. The 2019 highlights show what happens when groups of people come together from all walks of life to support the good of all. Look at the stats below: 21.9 million dollars was raised in a 24 hour period for Giving Tuesday! What an incredible experience to be a part of. Our gift no matter how small: perhaps a cup of coffee can go a long way, to show selflessness, love and a genuine care for another.

If you have the means to do more…do it! If you have the means to donate large sums of money to help someone on the streets find a new life – DO IT! If you can send 1000 shoe boxes through Samaritans Church for Operation Christmas Child – DO IT! Let your imagination lead the way on how you can help. Perhaps you can join a group at your church, workplace or friends and do something to make a difference in the life of someone who needs a hand up. During this hard economic time there are many people suffering in one way or another, you can be a catalyst for change. You can make a difference ! Don’t just think of something to do… rather act on it! Share the love! Share the joy ! Happy giving! We have much to be thankful for and out of the abundance of all we have – we can give! Regardless of what you give, whether its your time, finances or something clever you have thought of …remember you are giving HOPE! Hope is needed by each and every person on this planet – its what helps move us forward as a human race!

Emmy McKirgan