Philanthropy Day of Giving Tuesday
It began in 2012 as a simple idea: a day to encourage people to do good. It has since grown into a worldwide celebration of generosity, inspiring millions of people to give, collaborate, and make a difference in their communities. The simple truth is, together we truly do make a difference!
🌎 What It’s About
Giving Tuesday isn’t just about donating money—it’s about acts of kindness and service. People participate by:
Contributing to favorite charities or nonprofits
Volunteering their time
Helping neighbors or community members
Sharing fundraising campaigns online
Supporting small businesses or causes with social impact
💖 How It Works
Organizations around the world use the day to kick off their year-end fundraising campaigns. Many offer donation matches, special projects, or highlight personal stories to show the impact of giving. Social media plays a big role—hashtags like #GivingTuesday or #PhilanthropyDay help spread the movement globally.
🎁 Why It Matters
Giving Tuesday reminds us that even small actions—whether donating $5, sharing a cause online, or volunteering an hour—can collectively make a huge difference. It’s a moment of hope and community spirit after the consumer focus of Thanksgiving weekend. It feels good too. The old saying it’s in giving that we receive is certainly true!
LOCAL GIVING TUESDAY....
Junior League of Boston — On Giving Tuesday they highlight supporting their Annual Fund, which backs their community service efforts across Boston.
Ronald McDonald House Charities of New England (RMHCNE) — They run a Giving Tuesday campaign focusing on keeping families close (meals, housing, comfort) for children undergoing medical treatment.
Greater Boston Food Bank — Their Giving Tuesday campaign helps provide thousands of holiday meals for children, seniors, and veterans across Eastern Massachusetts.
Celebrity Series of Boston — For Giving Tuesday, they spotlight community partner arts & music nonprofits (like Boston Music Project, City Strings United, or others) to support arts access in Boston.
Boston Harbor Now — Expands access to the waterfront and Harbor Islands while advancing climate resilience and stewardship.
Plain Jaine Foundation — Provides practical supports for children and youth experiencing trauma, neglect, or foster-care challenges.
Wellesley Historical Society — Preserves and shares local history through archives, exhibits, and educational programs.
Horizons for Homeless Children — Delivers early education, play-based programs in shelters, and family support services.
BrittyBash (Britten Hartnett Tyler Foundation) — Annual fundraiser supporting grief-sensitive care for families coping with loss.
Emerald Necklace Conservancy — Protects and restores Boston’s historic chain of parks for public access and enjoyment.
Meals on Wheels Boston — Delivers nutritious meals and daily check-ins to homebound older adults.
The Home for Little Wanderers — One of the nation’s oldest child-welfare agencies; supports children and families through residential, community, and adoption services.
First Light — Supports creative, educational, and environmental engagement through media and programming.
Celebration International Church (Wayland, MA) — Community outreach, food pantry, childcare, and local missions.
Steps for Vets (U.S.VETS) — 5K “Run, Walk, Roll” supporting veteran housing, career services, meals, and supportive programs.
Rosie’s Place (Boston) — First women-only shelter in the U.S.; offers meals, shelter, education, legal aid, and housing support.