GivingTuesday is an open-source movement with no set list of participating nonprofits, so you’re free to support any cause that promotes positive change—be it a registered charity or a local community group. Whether you want to give your time, talents, voice, or financial support, here are some tips for how to find a nonprofit or community organization to support on GivingTuesday.
Decide what types of causes you’d like to support.
If there’s a cause you care about, chances are there’s an organization that dedicates itself to driving change in that space. For example, if food insecurity in your neighborhood is important to you, there are many ways to support local food access. You could volunteer at a food bank or community center, or contribute to community fridges and mutual aid food distributions.
Remember, impactful organizations aren’t limited to registered charities alone. An organization’s tax status doesn’t determine its worthiness or impact—it’s the commitment to its mission that matters.
Ask your friends and family where they choose to give.
Chances are, the people closest to you care about similar causes—why not support the same organizations? This is a wonderful way to ensure you’re giving towards initiatives that have a profound impact on your community and amplify your collective efforts to drive even more support for the causes you care about.
Try searching through a nonprofit directory to get started.
Online directories like Charity Navigator and Guidestar by Candid are helpful for learning more about organizations in your region and/or interest area. These virtual platforms provide valuable details such as ratings, location, tax status (e.g., whether the organization is a registered 501(c)(3)), whether donations are tax-deductible, and summaries of their impact and results.
Don’t forget to explore your local nonprofit association for additional resources.
Nonprofit associations are dedicated to supporting and amplifying the work of local nonprofits. Their websites and social media channels offer valuable insights into the missions and impact of these organizations, along with information on how you can lend your support.
Use social media to connect.
Leverage social media to connect with local activists, community organizers, and changemakers. These individuals are deeply familiar with the urgent needs in your community and can guide you to opportunities where your support will have the greatest impact. Social media is a powerful tool for discovering and engaging with grassroots organizations, mutual aid networks, and activists who have meaningful impact.
Check if there’s a local GivingTuesday movement happening in your area.
With official GivingTuesday movements in 105 countries, there are individuals, organizations, and coalitions working year-round to foster radical generosity in their communities. They run impactful campaigns each GivingTuesday (this year on Dec. 3rd), offering opportunities to get involved through raising awareness, peer fundraising, acts of kindness, and more.
Follow GivingTuesday on social media for highlights of impactful movements, and be sure to check out campaigns from the organizations and movements you follow for even more ways to get involved!
Will my donation be matched on GivingTuesday?
While the organization behind GivingTuesday does not match donations, many companies offer matching programs in honor of the day. The nonprofit you choose to support can confirm if your donation is eligible for a match.
Also, be sure to check with your employer as well—many offer donation matching as part of their HR benefits!
Don’t forget to share where you gave!
Want to make your gifts go even further? Share where and how you give on social media! By showcasing the causes you’re supporting, you can inspire your friends and family to give as well. This ripple effect helps foster a more generous society, strengthens our communities, and builds the world we all want to live in.
Don’t forget to share your GivingTuesday gift with your network—whether on social media or through a conversation. You never know how much more giving you might inspire.
This GivingTuesday, your involvement can make a lasting impact, no matter how you choose to give. Whether you’re donating time, resources, or spreading the word, your actions help create a ripple effect of generosity. Let’s make this GivingTuesday one to remember!
