The experts say that North Americans will spend between $750 and $900 billion on presents during this holiday season.
That’s almost a TRILLION.
There’s no denying the power of advertising with Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Boxing Week, and regular holiday season purchases. I believe in spending a modest number on gifts for my family at Christmas, so I acknowledge my part in what will be spent during the holiday season.
What I find encouraging is the #GivingTuesday global movement launched a few years ago on social media on the Tuesday following Black Friday and Cyber Monday. This is a great opportunity for us to help make a difference in the world, to help make the world a better place.
Charities, families, businesses, and individuals are coming together to transform the way people think about, talk about, and participate in the giving season.
#GivingTuesday is an awesome way for all of us to participate in the spirit of the season. It provides us with an opportunity to think of others, to do more than comment on the ills of the world we live in.
It gives us an opportunity to be part of making a difference.
I’ve selected five charities for you to consider giving to in one way or another this #GivingTuesday. You can give financially, give donations of clothing or food, or whatever other physical need they may have that you might be able to able to provide, or you can give of your time and energy in areas where they could use volunteers.
This list is in alphabetical order. If these charities don’t happen to resonate with you, go to Canada Helps or #GivingTuesdayCanada to find a charity where you can make a difference on #GivingTuesday. You can find charities related in various areas that interest you, such as the Environment, Indigenous Peoples, the Arts & Culture, Social Services, and Animals to name just a few.
541 Eatery Exchange: A non-profit café on Barton Street East in Hamilton, where you can pay-it-forward by turning dollars into buttons. Anyone can use 5 buttons from the jar each day as $5 towards a good meal, which not only helps feed those who need help paying, but also nurtures a diverse community of belonging around the table.
Indwell: Creates affordable housing communities that support people seeking health, wellness and belonging. They have housing community projects in Hamilton, Woodstock, Simcoe, and Mississauga.
Mission Services: A charity in Hamilton on a mission to end poverty and create safe places to learn, heal, and grow.
Urban Promise: A charity that focuses on reaching children, raising leaders, and restoring community in Toronto community housing.
World Vision: A global relief, development and advocacy organization. They partner with children, families and their communities to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice.
Giving is inherent to human beings. We all have an innate desire to help others. It matters because our hearts tell us it matters. #GivingTuesday is a great opportunity to follow our hearts and be part of something good.
