For one special day each year, GivingTuesday unites people worldwide under a shared mission: to give, uplift, and inspire. Since its grassroots beginnings in 2012, the movement has grown into a global force, with individuals, nonprofits, and companies in more than 80 countries participating. Observed on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, GivingTuesday has become a day where the collective power of compassion shines brightest, moving millions to support essential causes. In 2023, the movement raised $3.1 billion in the U.S. alone, showing the profound impact of people coming together. 

Yet beyond the dollars and volunteer hours, GivingTuesday speaks to something deeper—a universal drive to care for others. In every community, countless hands and hearts work year-round to create a better world. On this day, their work is recognized, supported, and celebrated. 

Ordinary People, Extraordinary Impact

Consider the countless faces behind the scenes: the volunteers who serve warm meals; the mentors guiding young people toward a brighter future; and the health care workers ensuring mothers and babies receive essential care in rural areas. These people come from all walks of life, yet they share a common motivation: the belief that giving is powerful, and even small acts of service can make a profound difference. 

Among them is Marilyn Turner of Kansas City, Missouri, who recently shared her experience volunteering with the Church of the Resurrection’s mobile food pantry. “My morning was spent volunteering with others… serving at the mobile food pantry,” she wrote. “It was exhausting, and it was rewarding. The people that I get to meet and help, it is overwhelming to hear people that truly have nothing are so humble and kind. We served over 75 families today.”

For Turner, volunteering is not about recognition but about spreading awareness. “I talk of my volunteer work often, not looking for a pat on the back, but hopefully to bring to light the need in one’s own community. Give back! Believe me when I say you get back far more than you can ever imagine. So many organizations are needing volunteers. Get involved!” Her words embody the essence of GivingTuesday: that when we give, we gain something priceless in return.

In the heart of rural Missouri, Tonia Wright, CEO and founder of Altruism, Inc., leads a dedicated team at the Maternal and Infant Health (MaIH) Center. This center provides comprehensive support to expectant and postpartum women and birthing people, offering services such as doula assistance, access to midwives, monthly diaper distribution, maternal mental health services, access to fresh produce, and much more. Wright emphasizes the importance of compassionate, equity-focused care. “The support we provide is meant to reduce stress, and provide a safe space to be seen and heard during a woman or birthing person’s most vulnerable time,” she said. “Our team is there to listen, advocate, and provide information and resources to make the perinatal process as healthy and positive as possible.”

For Wright and her team, GivingTuesday represents an invaluable opportunity to sustain and expand their work. Each donation and act of support helps ensure that they can continue providing vital care, particularly in areas where resources are limited. 

In Kansas City, the AdHoc Group Against Crime exemplifies this resilience. “For some, AdHoc is the emergency room for social services, and for others, it’s the trust and bridge between the community and the criminal justice system,” says Damon Daniel, president of AdHoc. Their work in providing grief counseling and intervention services for families affected by violence means meeting people in their hardest moments. Despite the difficult nature of this work, the team at AdHoc remains steadfast, guided by a commitment to bring healing and support to their community. Their resilience and that of countless others reflect the heart of GivingTuesday: people and organizations that continue to serve, no matter the obstacles, because they believe in a better future. 

How Can You Make an Impact?

This GivingTuesday, consider how you can make a difference in your own way, whether by donating, volunteering, or raising awareness for causes that matter. 

  • Explore GivingTuesday’s Resources: Visit the official GivingTuesday website for ideas on how to give back, resources for organizing fundraisers, and stories from people around the world who are making a difference.
  • Find Local Nonprofits: Platforms like Charity Navigator and GuideStar can help you discover trusted nonprofits in your area or around the world.
  • Volunteer Your Time: Websites such as VolunteerMatch connect people with local volunteer opportunities suited to their interests and availability.
  • Start a Fundraiser: Use platforms like GoFundMe or Facebook Fundraisers to rally friends, family, and community members around a cause you’re passionate about.
  • Spread the Word: Boost the impact by sharing information about GivingTuesday on social media with the hashtag #GivingTuesday. Your voice can inspire others to join this global movement.

No act of kindness is too small. Whether giving a little or a lot, your contribution strengthens communities and fuels a legacy of compassion and generosity.