News

GivingTuesday 2020

October 2020



What is GivingTuesday?

GivingTuesday is a global day of giving and unity. Now in its twelfth year, GivingTuesday is recognized as an opportunity for people and communities to come together in the spirit of generosity.

The first GivingTuesday was held on December 4, 2014. Today, the day continues to be recognized worldwide.

When is GivingTuesday this year?

GivingTuesday is held on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving. This year, GivingTuesday will be held on December 1, 2020.

Following traditional days of spending, including Black Friday and Cyber Monday, GivingTuesday stands in contrast.  Instead, GivingTuesday is focused on the act and spirit of giving back.

What is GivingTuesday Now?

For the first time ever, GivingTuesday Now was also created as an emergency response to the unprecedented need caused by COVID-19. GivingTuesday Now took place on May 5, 2020.

An opportunity for people around the world to stand together in unity, GivingTuesday Now allowed people around the world to give back in safe ways that allow for social connection and kindness even while practicing physical distancing.

How Does GivingTuesday work?

As a Smart Start of Mecklenburg supporter, you can help us reach vulnerable children and their families within our community in several ways, including:

  • Making a donation
  • Creating a Facebook Fundraiser
  • Sharing our cause on social media

Why does GivingTuesday exist?

The spirit of generosity can be found all around us. GivingTuesday recognizes this. As a global movement, the event is designed to inspire people and communities to come together at a time of the year when we can collectively reflect on those in need.

While Black Friday and Cyber Monday are recognized as days of spending, GivingTuesday is an opportunity to give back to our community.

GivingTuesday was founded in 2012 by the 92nd Street Y and the United Nations Foundation. It didn't take long at all for GivingTuesday to be embraced and gain awareness across social media. The hashtag #GivingTuesday is part of the official name.

How to Donate on GivingTuesday?

On GivingTuesday, your donation to Smart Start of Mecklenburg County can help protect vulnerable children in our community. When you give, you're supporting our work to keep children healthy, learning and safe every day and in times of crisis. Thank you.