Celebrated on 12/01/2026
National Day of Giving, also known as Giving Tuesday, falls on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving. It was created in 2012 by the 92nd Street Y and the United Nations Foundation to kick off the holiday charitable season. In 2022, an estimated $3.1 billion was donated online in the US on this day alone.
National Day of Giving, commonly referred to as Giving Tuesday, was founded in 2012 by the 92nd Street Y in partnership with the United Nations Foundation. The idea emerged as a response to the commercialization of the holiday season, particularly the shopping frenzy of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The goal was to create a day that encourages people to give back to their communities through donations, volunteering, or acts of kindness.
Since its inception, Giving Tuesday has grown into a global movement, with participation from over 80 countries. It has evolved from a primarily online donation drive to include community events, corporate matching campaigns, and social media challenges. Today, it is celebrated through campaigns on platforms like Facebook and GoFundMe, with nonprofits and schools organizing fundraisers. The day also emphasizes small acts of kindness, such as helping a neighbor or donating food.
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