Every year on the Tuesday after Black Friday, the U.S. celebrates another holiday revolved around giving. This Tuesday is the day that non-profits and charity groups thrive. This Tuesday is like Christmas for those less fortunate.

Up Next: Black Friday: How Can Your Company Benefit from The Shift from Brick-And-Mortar to Online Stores

But for many, they don’t know about this Tuesday, nor do they care. They just got huge deals the previous Friday and Monday for everything they could ever want, so there is no more money to give to others. So why should they give? Well let’s start with the basics.

What is Giving Tuesday?

Giving Tuesday, refers to the Tuesday after the Thanksgiving in the United States. This day, often seen as #GivingTuesday, “is a global day of giving fueled by the power of social media and collaboration,” according to GivingTuesday.org. On Giving Tuesday, the charitable season is kicked off and people shift their focus to their holiday and end-of-year giving.

“Whether it’s some of your time, a donation, or the power of your voice in your local community,” finding something that you’re passionate about and giving them your attention is very important.

Why Should I Give?

There are many reasons for someone to give on Giving Tuesday. One of the most obvious is how it makes you feel good. Studies have shown that those who give, are happier people. So, ditch the new iPhone and give that money you would have spent, to someone who needs it more.

Another reason to give that might appeal more to businesses: it’s tax deductible. Many companies are able to ask for a receipt from the charitable donation and write it off when they fill out the next years taxes.

But the most important reason of them all, you can make a real difference for someone. Whether you are donating to someone specifically or an organization that helps research cures for diseases, any donation is appreciated. When they say “a little goes a long way,” they weren’t kidding. Depending on the organization or charity, your $20 donation could result in multiple meals for a child, or supplies for a camp of 150 kids for a week or two.

How Do I Pick Which Charity to Donate To?

If you aren’t sure where you want to donate your time, money, or the power of your voice, there are plenty of ways to find out. GivingTuesday.org includes a list of organizations that are involved through their movement; but if you can’t find what you are looking for, there is always the good old internet. Start by searching topics that you care about, search on Google or Facebook or Instagram even. From there dive into learning about different organizations missions and what they fundraise for. This will give you a better idea of where your donation is going. Once you have found your organization, find out how you can give back to them.

Some ideas many people give to include:

• GoFundMe: This is a crowdfunding website that holds thousands of causes on it which makes it easy to find one that you care about.
• Facebook Fundraisers: On Giving Tuesday, your Facebook feed might be full of posts from your friends about donating to charitable organizations, find one that means the most to you or spread your money out amongst them to help your friends and those charities!
• Make-A-Wish Foundation: One of the biggest charities in the world known for helping make a dream come true for children with life-threatening illnesses, they accept any donations of time and money.
• Your local Humane Society or The Human Society of the United States: For all those pet lovers out there, this one might be a simple but easy way to help the furry little animals who need help.

In a time that is so focused on spending money for yourself and those you love, shift your focus and give back to those who need it more. This year, give on #GivingTuesday and make a difference in those who need it more!

Need Help Developing Your Company’s Social Media Strategy?

Find Out How jWeb Can Help by Calling (636) 928-3162