Origins of Giving Tuesday
Giving Tuesday is celebrated on Tuesdays following Thanksgiving in the United States, but it is more than a follow-up to Black Friday and Cyber Monday. It has become a symbol of global generosity and allows individuals, communities, and organizations to connect and support each other. This event launched in 2012 and is one of the most recognized days for nonprofits and donors. A counterbalance to the consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Giving Tuesday reminds us of the importance of giving back and shows the collective power of philanthropy in creating change.
Whether you're an individual looking to give back or an organization planning end-of-year giving, your contributions can make a big difference in the coming year. Giving Tuesday falls at the end of the year also when many annual campaigns are closing and corporations must complete their spending. Here are some ways to give on Giving Tuesday and how it all started.
The Origins and Growth of Giving Tuesday
New York’s 92nd Street Y conceived the idea for Giving Tuesday in partnership with the United Nations Foundation to encourage people to give back to their communities. Since its launch, Giving Tuesday has grown into a worldwide movement, with participation from millions across various countries and cultures, all united by a commitment to making a positive impact. In 2023, Giving Tuesday raised over $3.1 billion in the U.S., underscoring its role as a cornerstone in the philanthropic calendar.
Giving Tuesday is unique because it’s not just about financial donations; it also encourages giving of all kinds, including volunteering, acts of kindness, and simply sharing information about causes. This approach has allowed Giving Tuesday to become a participatory movement that welcomes all people to join and give in whatever way they can. Giving Tuesday emphasizes the power of collective action—when people come together to support a cause, their combined impact can be extraordinary.
How to Give More on Giving Tuesday
If you’re considering contributing this Giving Tuesday, here are some ways to donate more than monetarily.
Skills Sharing: If you have special skills in marketing or your profession, organizations need volunteers, whether it’s for hands-on tasks or remote roles that support their mission.
Share Impact Stories: If you are unable to donate monetarily, spreading impact stories and your support on social media with images, testimonials, and videos can inspire others to support great local and global causes.
Matching Gift Challenges: Corporate sponsors and donors can help magnify contributions on Giving Tuesday by offering matching gifts. By letting donors know their contribution will be doubled, you can encourage more people to give, knowing their gift will go further.
Prepare for Post-Giving Tuesday Engagement: Donor relationships don’t end with Giving Tuesday. Organizations like DCH have end-of-year giving initiatives like annual funds that keep their operations running smoothly and plan for the future.
Join Us for in the Giving Tuesday Movement
Giving Tuesday is a philanthropic cornerstone in the calendar for both individual donors and nonprofits. The act of giving can change the world, we truly believe that. This year on Giving Tuesday, consider making a donation, volunteering, or spreading awareness for DCH and the mission to transform neighborhoods and create more sustainable communities.