Have you noticed that Black Friday ads have been running for a couple of weeks now, are still going even though Black Friday was several days ago? At this time of year, the pressure to spend can be enormous. The spirit of the season can easily be lost in the hustle and bustle. Giving Tuesday is a chance to re-focus our attention on generosity and helping our communities.
Taking place on the Tuesday following American Thanksgiving and Black Friday, Giving Tuesday offers a refreshing pause. It’s a moment to look outward, reconnect with our shared purpose, and practise generosity together. Launched in 2012 by New York’s 92nd Street Y and the United Nations Foundation, Giving Tuesday began as a simple idea: set aside one day to encourage people to do good. The idea resonated quickly, spreading across borders and inspiring a global movement rooted in compassion and community.
Giving Tuesday arrived in Canada in 2013 through a partnership led by CanadaHelps and a growing network of charities and community-minded organizations. Since then, participation has grown steadily. Thousands of charities, from neighbourhood food banks to churches of every denomination to national service organizations, now benefit from the collective momentum of this annual day of giving.
The impact is meaningful. Canadian charities report that Giving Tuesday often marks the unofficial start of the year-end giving season, a crucial period for sustaining programs and services. The day not only sparks donations but also boosts volunteer engagement, raises awareness for local needs, and strengthens the connection between charities and the communities they serve. Many organizations see Giving Tuesday as a much-needed lift during a time when demand for services continues to rise while resources are increasingly stretched.
What makes Giving Tuesday special is that generosity takes many forms. It could mean donating funds, but it can also mean offering time, skills, or simply helping share a message that matters. At its heart, the day reflects a spirit of mutual aid - coming together to ensure everyone can flourish.
If you’re wondering how you can participate this year, here are a few ideas:
- Support a cause close to your heart. Even a modest donation can help a local charity meet pressing needs. Some families make a donation to a different charity on each Sunday in Advent. Others simply donate to their church or another charity close to their heart.
- Volunteer your time. Many organizations welcome both in-person and virtual support. There are volunteer positions for every interest and ability. Many communities have a volunteer centre to help match folks to a volunteer position that they will find meaningful and enjoyable.
- Give goods. Food banks, shelters, and community programs often share wish lists of items that make a direct difference. Check out the website of your local women’s shelter, food bank, or animal shelter for a wish list of items they need.
- Spread the word. A social media post, a conversation with a friend, or a workplace initiative can amplify a charity’s message. Including hashtags such as “#GivingTuesday” can amplify the message.
- Practice small acts of kindness. A handwritten note, a meal shared, or a neighbourly gesture can brighten someone’s day. Is there someone you know who could use some help? Or some company? Set aside time to spread small joys this Christmas season.
On Giving Tuesday, every action whether big or small helps nurture hopeful, connected, and compassionate communities. And that is generosity worth celebrating.