The day after tomorrow, Nov. 29, is Giving Tuesday all across Canada. Hot on the heels of two of the busiest shopping days of the year, it marks the unofficial opening of the holiday giving season, bringing together individuals, companies and charities to support the causes that matter to them.
The movement started in 2013 and has grown each year. Thousands of Canadian businesses and organizations are participating in 2016. Activities range include fundraising campaigns, volunteerism efforts, blood drives, food drives, corporate giving efforts and more. The goal is to bolster the health and wellbeing of our communities, while giving people a chance to take a break from the focus on consumerism.
The Victoria Foundation was an early-adopter of the fledgling movement, and for the fourth year in a row, we’re running our popular “unselfie” contest that asks people to share a photo of their giving in action. All entries are posted on our Facebook page, and eligible to win one of two $500 donations to the winner’s charity of choice.
With thousands of Canadian companies and organizations already involved, Nov. 29 should provide options for just about anyone looking to give back amidst the flurry of spending. The fact is, there are thousands of charity organizations the world over, many of which are located right here, near you. Every single one of them could use your help, so why not take this opportunity to do something special for someone in need?
Volunteer your time to help. Offer your expertise to those that need it. Donate to a cause you care about. Find something that moves you, and take that first step. However you choose to celebrate the day, I hope you’ll share your story by entering this year’s unselfie contest and give yourself the opportunity to reward a local charity even more.
Visit victoriafoundation.ca to enter, or to find more information on how to get involved.
And if you’re looking for deserving local charities to support, take a look at the Victoria Community Knowledge Centre at ckc.victoriafoundation.bc.ca. You’ll find hundreds of charity profiles, complete with photos, videos and more.
Sandra Richardson is CEO of the Victoria Foundation.
