What Is Giving Tuesday? A Quick Look

December 2, 2025

McCOOK Neb. — Today is Giving Tuesday, a global day of generosity that takes place every year on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. It encourages people to support nonprofits, charities, and community groups through donations, volunteering, or simple acts of kindness.

How It Started

Giving Tuesday began in 2012 at the 92nd Street Y in New York, created as a response to the holiday shopping rush of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The idea was simple: dedicate one day to giving back. The movement grew quickly, spreading worldwide and inspiring millions of people each year.

A Global Impact

• Celebrated in more than 85 countries

• Over $3.6 billion raised worldwide in 2024

• Millions of people volunteer their time, not just their money

Since its launch, Giving Tuesday has helped generate more than $18 billion in charitable giving in the U.S. alone.

How It Works

Giving Tuesday isn’t a fundraising site—it’s a movement. Nonprofits create their own campaigns, and people join in by donating, volunteering, or sharing causes online using #GivingTuesday.

You don’t have to sign up for anything. If you want to participate, simply support an organization you care about or help spread the word.