Did you know that today is #GivingTuesday? Sure, we survived Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but #GivingTuesday is something completely different. Instead of fighting crowds at the mall or scouring the internet for the best deals, #GivingTuesday kicks off the season of giving (not buying) by asking participants to make a donation to the charity of their choice on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving.
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#GivingTuesday is a new movement, but it’s already having a huge impact on participating charities and nonprofits. Last year, more than $10 million was donated on the inaugural #GivingTuesday of 2012, a 53 percent increase over the same day in 2011. Charities large and small have built campaigns and fundraisers around #GivingTuesday, and hope to see even greater results this year.
For donors, #GivingTuesday is a snap. Just go to the website of one or more of your favorite charities and make an online donation. Voila! You’ve done your part. And with no circling in the parking lot looking for a spot, panicking that the big screen TVs will be sold out before you get there, or comparison shopping for the best digital camera. #GivingTuesday really does bring out the best in all of us, and reminds us of the meaning and spirit of the holiday season—to give from the heart.
For more information on #GivingTuesday, visit #GivingTuesday.org or the website of your favorite charity.
