#GivingTuesday is a global day of giving. Driven by the power of social media, #GivingTuesday began 5 years ago in response to the consumerism of Black Friday and the holiday season.
To get in the giving spirit, we asked yPIE board members which charities they support:
- Children International: Children International aims to end poverty through community centers and training programs for sponsored kids.
“In 2011 on a cold and rainy D.C. winter day I actually stopped when one of the Children International representatives approached me while walking through Dupont Circle. After about two minutes of questions from him I was sponsoring a nine year old boy in Guatemala named Gerson. Since then, once a month an automatic withdrawal of $25 from my account goes to pay for his tuition, books and food at school.” –Mary Catherine Chase
- DonorsChoose.org: DonorsChoose.org is an online platform where public school teachers can request donations to help purchase equipment and materials for their classrooms.
“Oftentimes, public school teachers buy art supplies, reading materials and other hands-on learning activities for their students with their own money. DonorsChoose.org allows donors to choose a specific project to receive the donation so you know how your donation is being used.” –Stephanie Blochinger
- International Rescue Committee: As thousands of refugees arrive in the United States, IRC helps them get settled, navigate their new homes, and rebuild their lives. – Katie O’Connell
- UN World Food Program: The UN World Food Program is the largest humanitarian agency fighting hunger worldwide.
“I have worked for WFP in Mozambique. I have seen hands on how important the support WFP provides is. I worked on nutritional support is for HIV/AIDS care, and school meals that often are the only meal a day for kids. But WFP also steps in when an emergency deprives families of an opportunity to cook their own meals or procure food by giving victims emergency high energy biscuits. Their work is critically important and a cause I am willing to support.” –Franzi Rook
- International Medical Corps: Whether it’s the refugee crisis in the Middle East or the ebola outbreak in Western Africa, International Medical Corps has continued to serve on the front lines of crises around the world. – Katie O’Connell
- Project Linus: Project Linus is a nonprofit organization that provides handmade security blankets to children who are sick or hospitalized.
“For years, I watched my mother take time each evening after dinner to make blankets to donate to her local chapter. It’s always been a rewarding way for her to volunteer her time, but I don’t think anyone in my family truly understood the impact a Project Linus blanket could have until my own baby cousin received one while recovering from surgery. It’s amazing how something so simple can be such a comfort during a difficult time! My family has been all the more supportive of the organization since being personally touched by the good work of its staff and volunteers.” –Kelsey Sherbondy
Here are some ways you can be involved this #GivingTuesday:
- Check out and donate to some of the organizations yPIE members are supporting.
- Would you like to give back to something you are more passionate about? Charity Navigator is a great resource to find non-profits to support and local volunteer opportunities.
- Strapped for cash this holiday season? Not to worry. You can still be involved by spreading the word via social media using #GivingTuesday
So what are you waiting for – it’s time to give back and get involved this holiday season!