The United Nations Foundation and Many Other Blue-ribbon Organizations Are Launching "Giving Tuesday"

We Have Only 1 Day for Giving Thanks, But 2 Days for Taking Advantage

So many people are laser-focused on taking advantage of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.  Now, many powerful corporations, agencies, and influential leaders are asking why not tie the score, with one more day of giving.  Giving back, that is.

Some kind hearted folks have mobilized the first annual Giving Tuesday, as a time to "create a national day of giving at the start of the annual holiday season.  It celebrates and encourages charitable activities that support nonprofit organizations."  That's how the Giving Tuesday's website describes their mission.

About Giving Tuesday

National Public Radio ran a news item about this new venture.  The idea for Giving Tuesday was hatched last year by community leaders at a YMCA in New York.  Like a snowball, it has picked up steam, and support, from 2,000 partners in all 50 states including the likes of:

 - The UN Foundation
 - Groupon
 - The Economist Magazine
 - The Atom Factory
 - Facebook
and others. 

But the Giving Tuesday leaders emphasize that success can come only from people everywhere contributing their part. 

OK.  Great.  So How and Where Can We Help?

During this early stage of growth, "public awareness" is absolutely critical.  Getting the word out.  So the Giving Tuesday founders and sponsors invite public support by:

 - Spreading the word on social media sites
 - Donating money and/or time directly
 - Incorporate links to Giving Tuesday on our sites and blogs. 

Where Does Giving Tuesday Fit in with the Existing Philanthropy Fabric?

Well, not sure how this relates to United Way, et al, et al, et al. But personally, I do rather like the idea of trying to help neutralize the over-commercialization of one of the most sacred six weeks in our calendar year.  In fact, it seems to have some ring to it, to focus more on "what did you give?" this time of year, than "what did you get?"

Best of luck and prosperity to you folks at Giving Tuesday.  Now where do I send the check?  Are there any Giving Tuesday activities or groups in the Rapid City or Black Hills areas of South Dakota?

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