National Day of Giving

On the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, a spirit of generosity sweeps across the United States. The National Day of Giving, often called Giving Tuesday, is a chance for people from all walks of life to come together and support the causes that matter most to them. Whether you’re donating, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, this day is all about making a positive impact right where you are.

What is National Day of Giving?

Imagine a day designed entirely around helping others – that’s the heart of National Day of Giving. Inspired by the rush of holiday shopping on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, this event flips the script, encouraging everyone to focus on generosity. Nonprofits, schools, businesses, and individuals join forces to raise funds, share stories, and lend a hand to those in need. For example, local food banks might run special drives, while community centers host volunteer fairs or donation campaigns.

When is National Day of Giving?

National Day of Giving takes place each year on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving. In 2026, it falls on December 2. It’s a one-day event, but the momentum often carries on throughout the holiday season. People participate by making donations, volunteering, starting fundraisers, or simply raising awareness for their favorite causes – online or in person.

Why National Day of Giving Matters

This day is about more than just money – it’s about community, kindness, and the belief that everyone can make a difference. For many charities, the donations and support received on this day are crucial for their year-round work. Families facing hardship, students seeking scholarships, and neighbors struggling with food insecurity all benefit from the generosity sparked by this movement. In a world that often feels divided, National Day of Giving is a reminder of our shared humanity and the power of collective action.

How to Get Involved in National Day of Giving

There are countless ways to make an impact, no matter your resources or schedule. Here are some ideas for getting involved:

• Donate to a cause you care about – even small contributions add up.
• Volunteer your time at a local charity, shelter, or food bank.
• Start a fundraiser among friends, classmates, or colleagues.
• Share stories about organizations doing meaningful work on social media.
• Encourage your workplace or school to join in with a group initiative.

History of National Day of Giving

National Day of Giving was launched in 2012 by the 92nd Street Y in New York City, in partnership with the United Nations Foundation. The idea was simple but powerful – create a day that celebrates generosity and encourages people to give back. What started as a local campaign quickly caught on, spreading across the country and eventually around the world. Today, millions of people participate, making it one of the largest generosity movements in history.

Noteworthy Facts About National Day of Giving

• In 2023, Giving Tuesday raised an estimated $3.1 billion in the United States alone.
• More than 80 countries now participate in Giving Tuesday-inspired events.
• The movement has inspired countless acts of kindness, from paying off strangers’ layaway bills to massive volunteer cleanups.
• Social media plays a huge role – the hashtag #GivingTuesday has trended every year since its inception.
• Many organizations receive up to 30% of their annual donations during the holiday season, with this day as a key driver.

Hashtags

#NationalDayOfGiving, #NationalDayOfGiving2026, #GivingTuesday