While the holiday season ushers in a focus on joy and giving, there are still many in need. Even small efforts can make a monumental difference in the life of a person. Giving Tuesday, which occurs the first Tuesday of December, is a globally dedicated effort aimed to help recognize charitable organizations. Giving doesn’t have to be limited to the holidays, so no matter the season, you may want to consider one or more of the following ways to give back.
Help a Food Assistance Organization
It’s easy to make a monetary donation to a great cause, especially when your money will be multiplied by a matching donor. Bank of America is tripling the value of your donations to Feeding America through December 31. Feeding America is a national non-profit organization that supports community food assistance programs such as Feeding Tampa Bay. United Health Care is also helping the local organization by donating 1,200 meals for every sack made by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this season.
Mentoring Time
Donations can also come in the way of time. Consider joining a one-on-one mentoring program like Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay. Reporter Beau Zimmer of 10 News WTSP teamed up with a local youth to create a video spot in support of the service organization. The Tampa Bay Rays sponsored the promotion, encouraging locals to invest in the young people of the community. Planting a dream can pay off dramatically, so you should encourage your staff to invest in the lives of Tampa Bay children.
Caring for Animals
Although you can give money to a cause, your time can be very helpful when animals are involved. On Giving Tuesday, employees of Grow Financial Federal Credit Union volunteered at the kennel of the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. You can also give back by selecting animal calendars from the Humane Society of Tampa Bay to give to your customers or employees.
Use Your Talents to Help
Tampa General Hospital is devoted to providing community health improvements and charitable care to those in need throughout the year. Giving Tuesday allowed the hospital to highlight its Operation Santa program, which caters to the holiday needs of pediatric patients. Your company may want to follow suit by donating services or goods to meet important community needs.
Toy Drive for a Charity
Euro Cycles of Tampa Bay kicked off its annual toy drive for the holidays on Giving Tuesday. The items that will be collected in the coming weeks will be used to benefit local Ronald McDonald House sites and families.
Pooling Many Resources
Simple strategies for giving back can keep your focus positive while helping others. Collect coats for area children, socks and hygiene items for the homeless, or canned food to benefit a local charity. Involve your clients by offering drop-off points at the entrance to your business.
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