After we celebrate Thanksgiving with our loved ones and shop until we drop on Black Friday/Cyber Monday, there is #GivingTuesday. On December 1st, we donate our time and money towards charities, communities centers, schools, businesses, and other organizations that help our communities to grow and thrive. Started four years ago, Giving Tuesday stemmed from a simple idea of coming together for one common purpose: to celebrate generosity and to give. This global day is conveniently held at the beginning of the holiday season, which is also the peak of giving season.
Below we have listed some local charities and organizations to give to and/or volunteer with. There are plenty to of opportunities for your family, your community, or your company to come together to give something more. People are encouraged to tell everyone to join in and be a part of a new tradition of generosity. There are no rules to giving, and these non-profits and organizations would be glad for your contributions during the holidays and all year round.
Animals and Pets
Pennsylvania SPCA is looking for ambassadors to this #GivingTuesday to help be a #VehicleForChange. Last Giving Tuesday was a success for the PSPSA, so they are hoping to raise funds through their gift ambassadors for a vehicle to transport rescue animals safely and efficiently. PAWS is another outlet whose mission is dedicated to saving Philadelphia’s homeless, abandoned, and unwanted animals. Giving is not limited to donation; you can adopt, foster, or volunteer!
Youth
There are more than a few ways you can assist the youth of our great city. As you know, the Philadelphia area has a big art community. It is driven by special programs such STAMP, started by the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance, which increases teens’ access to a wealth of incredible arts and culture programs in Philadelphia. What’s more, education is crucial to the success of individuals and their communities. That’s why Episcopal Community Services would like for everyone to give educational games for the youth. Creating a fun and exciting learning atmosphere helps comprehension and makes for a memorable experience. You can also make a donation to Young Involved Philadelphia. This organization promotes involvement and emerging leadership among young Philadelphians. Gifts help expand the advances set to engage, connect, and represent the young demographic in Philadelphia.
Women
Women’s Way is a gateway for all women in the Philadelphia area. Their mission is to tackle the region’s most pressing problems by through grant-making, public education, and advocacy initiatives to respond directly to community needs. You can donate to help continue efforts to make change and progress for the women in the City of Sisterly Affection. Women’s abuse is also very serious topic. Women Against Abuse is encouraging supporters to join the movement and give back to families impacted by domestic violence.
LGBT
We can’t forget the LGBT community – after all, our office is located in the heart of the Gayborhood! Delaware Valley Legacy Fund (DVLF*) is an LGBT community fund that strives increase philanthropy and grant-making. Gifting here supports the organization’s initiatives. DVLF’s 9th annual TOY drive is this Saturday, December 5th from 7 p.m. until 10 p.m. The William Way Community Center is an establishment that offers social, educational, and recreational support, and has been since the early 70’s. Meanwhile, the Mazzoni Center provides invaluable health care, counseling, and legal services to our brothers and sisters who need it.
Homelessness
Habitat for Humanity‘s current project is completing four new homes in New Hope Village. They are in the final stages of construction and they need your help to push forward in hopes of finishing the houses by March 2016. Habitat for Humanity is planning to double those donations up to $30,000. For those not on the list for housing, Advocates for Homeless & Those in Need (AHTN) provides providing temporary help to the homeless. Their website breaks down how you donate affects those in need. Take a look here.
Hunger Relief
Both MANNA and Philabundance welcome donations and host food drives year around. Giving Tuesday is considered another big holiday for them – in fact, Philabundance has a goal to prepare and deliver 50,000 meals! Donate through their websites as you normally would and think about the difference you are making helping to feed the sick and less fortunate.
Health
There are a number of reasons to give to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society*. Your gift or ticket to next year’s Preakness at the Piazza event will help raise funds to research development, programs, and more to make the lives of those dealing with MS easier. December 1st is also World AIDS Day. All funds increase public awareness about the crucial impact the virus has throughout the world. Make a donation here, and you will be celebrating two causes in one day. Finally, #StandwithPP by donating! Let’s ensure that Planned Parenthood Southeastern Pennsylvania remains the local trusted provider of health information and services right in the heart of our city.
#GivingTuesday is a day that is much needed throughout our city and country. Donating even a small contribution helps to create big changes within these organizations, and improves the quality of life for all those they serve. Start a tradition to give every year! If you give today, tell us what organizations you supported and why. Be an inspiration to others by sharing your experience.
There are many other #GivingTuesday opportunities throughout the city, so if you know of any please share them in our comment section.
*Denotes a client of Philly PR Girl.
