Celebrating #GivingTuesday: 5 Ways to Give Back

This November, Herzing is embracing the season of giving with open arms during our annual #GivingTuesday initiative. As one of our favorite campus-wide observances, #GivingTuesday is a time for us to come together as a community, both on and off our campuses, to support causes that truly matter.

#GivingTuesday began in 2012 with a simple yet meaningful idea: create a day that inspires people to do good. Since then, it has become a global movement that celebrates the act of giving and encourages people to make a positive impact on the world.

There are numerous ways you can participate and make a difference! Whether you are applying for Herzing’s #GivingTuesday Scholarship or if you just want to give back to the community this time of year, we'll explore some creative and meaningful ideas for giving back this GivingTuesday.

One of the most straightforward ways to give back is by donating to a charity or nonprofit organization that aligns with your values. Donations come in many shapes and sizes. You could make a monetary donation to the Herzing University Student Crisis Fund, or you can give canned goods to a food bank or your gently used jackets to a coat drive. The only limit is your imagination! Research and choose a cause that resonates with you and contributes to their efforts.

Giving doesn't always have to be about money. Your time is a valuable resource, and volunteering can be incredibly fulfilling. Look for local organizations, shelters or community centers that could use an extra hand. There are literally thousands of opportunities for you to contribute your time!

You can play to your strengths by finding opportunities through VolunteerMatch. The site matches you with volunteer opportunities that align with your passions and your cause. If you are only available at specific times, you will be paired with organizations that want your help when and where you can offer it!

Is there a particular cause you are passionate about but can’t find a way to give back? You may consider starting your own fundraising campaign. Use social media and crowdfunding platforms to raise money for charities and nonprofits. In the digital age, you can participate in virtual events to raise funds and awareness for various causes. Participate in online charity auctions, virtual walks, or live-streamed charity concerts. Whether it's for medical research, disaster relief or education, your efforts can make a substantial impact.

If you don’t have the time to organize a fundraiser, you can gather friends, family, or coworkers to organize a donation drive. You can gather essentials such as clothing, food, or hygiene products for the homeless or a nonprofit organization. Find a local shelter or charity in need of these items and make a significant contribution to their cause.

Small acts of kindness can have a ripple effect that ultimately makes a big difference. Pay for a stranger's coffee, leave an encouraging note for someone, or help an elderly neighbor with their chores. If you have a skill or knowledge in a particular area, consider sharing it with others. Offer mentorship or teach a class. This can be especially valuable for young people looking to develop skills or advance in their careers. While your actions may not make a great social media post, they spread positivity and make the world a better place.

Small businesses are often faced with more challenges than their larger corporate competitors. As you prepare for the holidays, make an effort to support local businesses by shopping at local stores, eating at local restaurants or attending local events. Your support not only directly impacts the business, but it also positively influences the economy and surrounding community. Small Business Saturday, held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving every year, is an ideal opportunity for supporting the businesses, and families, that make our communities great.

While it’s always valuable to support your local community, it’s important to not lose sight of the larger global community. Participate in activities that benefit the environment, such as tree planting, beach cleanups or recycling drives. Reducing your carbon footprint and preserving natural resources is a powerful way to give back to the planet.

Life can get hectic, but amongst the chaos, don’t forget to take a moment to express your gratitude. Write thank-you notes to people who have made a positive impact in your life, whether it's friends, family, or coworkers. Recognizing and appreciating others can inspire kindness and generosity while giving you a feeling of belonging and fulfillment.

There are countless ways to get involved this GivingTuesday, and you don't need to do something grand to make a difference. By participating in any of these ideas, you can contribute to the greater good and inspire others to do the same. Remember, the act of giving back is not limited to one day a year—it's a practice that can and should continue throughout the year.