We survived the long Thanksgiving weekend (but barely). It’s time to put the unbutton-your-jeans level overeating of turkey and harrowing Black Friday shopping experiences behind us and look forward to the joyful holiday season. Celebrating the holidays comes in many shapes and forms and one of our favorites is #GivingTuesday.
Now in its seventh year, this global day of giving kicks off the charitable season by encouraging people to give to organizations, charities, and initiatives that are doing good. Raising an estimated $274 million in 2017, #GivingTuesday has grown into a motivational movement showcasing local and national nonprofits, charitable movements, and community events.
Looking for ways to participate this #GivingTuesday? Here are four of our clients’ and employees’ favorites to stir your charitable spirit:
1. Eliminate smoking worldwide
Smoke-free initiatives have been around for decades, but no organization looked beyond the elimination of smoking to the agricultural and economic impact this would have on the world. Established in 2017, the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World (FSFW) is an independent nonprofit organization–and indinero client–founded on the belief that in order to accelerate progress to end smoking, we need to explore, test, and embrace new ideas and approaches to the issue.
The Foundation engaged @EY_Parthenon to conduct a landscape review of smoking tools in order to assess smoking cessation products and services that are on the market or in development. Read EY-Parthenon’s report here: https://t.co/Wq3tBiEztj pic.twitter.com/XzsDMXIRCq
— Smoke-Free World (@SmokeFreeFdn) November 1, 2018
A unique approach to a global problem
A decline in smoking is important to health but negatively impacts farmers, especially those in developing countries. To aid tobacco farmers, the Foundation focuses on implementing alternative livelihoods through partnerships with agricultural and rural development experts. Supported through an annual pledge of $80 million for 12 years, the Foundation doesn’t ask for donations, only that information and resources are shared until every corner of the globe embraces the mission of building a smoke-free world.
2. Ensure everyone has a decent place to call home
Perhaps one of the most recognizable nonprofits, Habitat for Humanity developed the concept of “partnership housing” where families in need of adequate housing work side-by-side with volunteers to build a decent home. After first introducing this concept over forty years ago, Habitat now operates in nearly 1,400 communities across the U.S. and in 70 countries worldwide. It has helped more than 13 million people achieve strength, stability, and independence through safe, decent, and affordable shelter.
Anyone can lend a helping hand
With volunteer options available both locally and globally, Habitat is, at its core, an accessible nonprofit. Programs like Veterans Build and Collegiate Challenge, provide volunteer, employment, and building opportunities to specific communities and groups. As an alternative to volunteering, donations of any size are always welcome. Be sure to check out what your local chapter’s goals and initiatives are doing today and how you might get involved.
3. Stand up to online bullies
The rise in social media introduced a new phenomenon to our society: online harassment. A recent study showed four-in-ten Americans have experienced some form of online harassment with an even larger share (68%) have witnessed harassment happening to others. Liz Lee, OnlineSOS founder and indinero client, used her experience as a victim of online bullying to build a safe haven for people targeted and threatened online.
#DefineOnlineHarassment pic.twitter.com/KRydO6EKdt
— OnlineSOS (@onlinesosorg) November 20, 2018
A new shirt to support a good cause
OnlineSOS strives to be a center for resources, tools, and partnerships to help people affected by online harassment. In order to continue empowering survivors, donations can be made anytime on their website. They even have a unique alternative to direct donations–swag! Check out their online store to take part in today’s gifting spirit, and purchase a bag and t-shirt as a gift for a loved one (and get it delivered before Christmas)!
4. Work toward a planet in balance
When most people hear “National Geographic,” they think of the iconic, thick magazine seen in every medical waiting room. However, this organization extends far beyond their monthly print materials. Founded in 1888, Nat Geo is one of the largest scientific and educational nonprofit institutions in the world, with a mission to save our planet through exploration, inspiration, and education. Each year, more than 450 grants are given to scientists, educators, and storytellers around the world to empower communities of changemakers.
Your donation doubled for one day only
From corporate partnerships to employer matching programs, Nat Geo has many gifting options for you to chose from. Today only, Nat Geo will match dollar-for-dollar all donations made in honor on #GivingTuesday. Don’t delay, your gift’s impact will only double until midnight today!
These are just a few charities making waves on this great day of giving. We could spend the whole day spotlighting inspiring nonprofits, but we’d love to hear from you. How are you getting involved in #GivingTuesday and what nonprofits, community organizations, or events have fueled your philanthropic fire?
