What is #GivingTuesday Anyway?

'Tis the season for… horrifying videos of people fighting over manipulated sale price items at their local Target. 

Yes, the holiday season brings about some of the strangest things. (Starbucks cups, anyone?) 

And given the current climate here in 2016, it can be tempting to give up on the idea of anything good happening from here until the new year. 

BUT, there is one international day I like: #GivingTuesday. 
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Haven't heard about this hashtagged holiday of sorts yet? Here’s what you need to know.

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Right after the hubbub of Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday, there comes another themed day at the end of November, but it’s not focused on buying, but giving. ​

The idea is to “kick off the charitable season, when many focus on their holiday and end-of-year giving.”

The Giving Tuesday website has many great ideas (and a toolkit!) for how you can give, as well as a directory of places in your area that are participating in the day. 

Individuals and organizations alike can participate in the day, then share their stories online with the hashtag #MyGivingStory. The Giving Tuesday site also has tons of resources for philanthropy and volunteering with impact. 

Whatever you end up doing, take the time to do your research on the charity, nonprofit, social business, or other organization that you choose to give your money or time to. 

Start your search here.