Here’s How You Can Easily Participate In #GivingTuesday

updated Nov 30, 2021

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While things felt a bit more normal than last year, Turkey Day still looked different due to the ongoing pandemic, and it’s more important than ever to help out those in need. For the ninth year in a row, #GivingTuesday commemorates the end of the shopping week by donating to those in need around the holidays.

Always falling on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, #GivingTuesday is a movement that kicks off the charitable season through supporting and celebrating philanthropy. This is done through the promotion and execution of yearly events as well as spreading awareness of how everyone can get involved. And as the two-year anniversary of the pandemic is approaching, nonprofits are still in high need of support to help communities this holiday season — and that’s where #GivingTuesday can help.

Created in 2012 by the Belfer Center for Innovation & Social Impact, the passion project has grown over the years into a nationwide movement. Their website is filled with ways to participate in the annual celebration, from volunteering at local events to providing the tools needed to create your own organization.

Beyond what’s listed on the official website, donating to your favorite cause on #GivingTuesday is an easy way to take part in the festivities. If you don’t know where to start, Charity Navigator is a great resource for finding nonprofits that are accepting donations. And if you choose to volunteer, be sure to practice safety guidelines outlined by the CDC.

Here are some of our favorite nonprofits to donate to:

Habitat for Humanity: You’ve most likely heard of this housing organization spanning across all 50 states as well as 70 countries around the world. Whether you donate or volunteer at a Habitat in your area, supporting this nonprofit helps support families in need of housing. This year, the organization is matching donations.

Housing Works: Since 1990, this organization has been advocating for those living with HIV/AIDS through offering services to low-income and homeless New Yorkers. The organization provides access to lifesaving services that cover housing, healthcare, mental health, and much more.

Toys for Tots: Run by the United States Marine Corps, this program collects toy donations and gifts them to families around the country. The holidays can be an extremely difficult time for parents who can’t afford to buy presents, but Toys For Tots aims to make the holidays special for all children.

Furnishing Hope: This nonprofit aims to furnish homes for wounded warriors and families who are transitioning from crisis. To date, Furnishing Hope has filled over 350 homes — over 250 of them being for veterans — with furniture to feel good about living independently.

Delivering Good: For those affected by poverty and natural disasters, this international charity aims to distribute clothing, accessories, and home furnishings to those in need. Since 1985, Delivering Good has reported to have donated over $2 billion goods worldwide.

CommonBond Communities: Swearing by “home is the foundation of life,” this nonprofit’s goal is to build stable homes for those without. CommonBond is all about providing roofs for those in need in order to establish stronger, more vibrant communities at large.

WhyHunger: For over 45 years, WhyHunger has been creating long-term solutions to help fight hunger and poverty here in the U.S. and around the world. The nonprofit does this by supporting grassroot movements and community-based organizations, increasing awareness and access to nutritious food, and spearheading educational programs, among other things.

Miry’s List: Through a large community of volunteers, Miry’s list works toward spreading awareness and supporting refugee families in 21 states across the U.S. The nonprofit provides bare homes as a start, then works with translators to find out what urgent essentials are based on each family’s needs.

Goodwill Industries International: By donating clothing and household items that are new or gently used, you’re providing affordable goods to those with lower incomes and help create jobs through their placement services. If you plan to drop off items, check with your local Goodwill to find out if store hours or their donation process has changed due to COVID-19.

We would like to say thanks to you, the Apartment Therapy community, for always being ready to jump in with your support. Please add any additional organizations or information in the comments below!