What is #GivingTuesday and why it matters 

We’re all familiar with Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the major shopping days that kick off the holiday season. But there’s another day that deserves just as much attention: #GivingTuesday. 

#GivingTuesday is a global movement that inspires people worldwide to support the causes and communities they care about most. It takes place annually on the first Tuesday following American Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday. Many people have negative feelings towards the consumerism and spending that surround the holiday shopping season.  #GivingTuesday shifts the focus from spending to giving, fostering generosity and a spirit of kindness.  

Our call to action

As the demand for our services grows, securing stable funding is essential in allowing us to continue providing support to victims and survivors of human trafficking.  

This Giving Tuesday we're collecting donations for our Greatest Needs Fund. This fund allows us to continue operating and supporting victims and survivors of human trafficking and helps us cover costs that grants often do not. 

Your donation, big or small, makes a real impact, helping us provide essential resources like safe housing, trauma counseling, legal assistance, and more.  

If a financial contribution isn’t possible right now, you can still support our mission by spreading awareness. Share our message with friends, family, and followers—on social media, at work, and in your community. Every conversation and every shared post brings us closer to an Alberta free from human trafficking. 

The history of #GivingTuesday

#GivingTuesday was started in 2012 by New York’s 92nd Street Y in partnership with the United Nations Foundation. Since its inception over ten years ago, the concept has grown to inspire millions around the world to come together in the spirit of generosity. Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading kindness, it reminds us that every little action can have a powerful impact.  

The movement continues to grow each year. It has spread far beyond its origins in the United States, with participants in more than 80 countries, inspiring countless organizations and individuals to join in and give back. 

Why does #GivingTuesday matter?

Since its inception, Giving Tuesday has raised billions of dollars for nonprofits worldwide and inspired countless acts of kindness and generosity. GivingTuesday.org reported $3.1 billion raised worldwide in just 24 hours last year, adding up to more than $13 billion in Giving Tuesday donations since its launch in 2012. 

The movement highlights the power of collective action. It’s more than just a fundraising event; it’s an opportunity for people around the world to come together and make a meaningful difference. Nonprofits, local charities, and community organizations rely on this day to raise awareness and funds, often using donations from #GivingTuesday to support critical needs throughout the year. 

For individuals, it’s a chance to look beyond the holiday shopping lists and contribute to something impactful. Whether you choose to participate by making a donation, sharing a message on social media, or volunteering for a local cause, every action is powerful, and makes a meaningful difference.  

How you can get involved

There are many ways to participate in the #GivingTuesday movement: 

  • Donate to a cause you care about, no matter the amount. Every contribution helps! 

  • Share your support for a cause on social media, encouraging friends and family to join in the movement. 

  • Volunteer with a local charity or organization and share your skills to help those in need. 

Let’s make this holiday season one that celebrates generosity, kindness, and the powerful impact we can create together. 

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Shopping sustainably this holiday season: prioritizing ethical labour 

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Human trafficking on the big screen