Thanksgiving (in the US), Giving Tuesday, the Holiday Season… The giving season is a time to reconnect with those we love and to make an impact within our communities locally and “back home”. 

As a community, it is important for us to participate in building a legacy of giving that will positively impact generations to come. Giving Tuesday coming up on November 29^th is a good reminder that the holiday season isn’t only about shopping, but it is also about building momentum on this idea of a global generosity movement. 

Each of us should be asking how we can get involved during the giving season. And remember that impact doesn’t have to be an expensive grand gesture. Even small acts of kindness can make a world of a difference for someone. Here are a few ways you can make an impact:

• Share a meal: Get together with friends and loved ones. Not everyone has traditional family support, so it is important that we look out for each other.
• Donate to your local food pantries: Find organizations like Shelley Cares and R.E.S.T Centres who are tackling food security issues right within your community and donate directly. Find a list of vetted Food banks, food pantries, and food distribution organizations serving the Black community here.
• Raise awareness for a cause: While you may not have money to give, you still have a voice. And even if your message only reaching one person and has an impact, but you have still contributed to change. So many smaller nonprofit organizations need as much help raising awareness for their cause as they do funding. Find an organization that you connect with by looking through the categories on the SBC directory.
• Random acts of kindness: From helping your neighbour rake up their leaves to clearing your elderly neighbour’s driveway after a big snowfall, dropping off a meal to a family in need, buying a coffee for your co-worker, and more, random acts of kindness – big or small – can brighten someone’s day. They can even start a chain reaction of kindness if that person can pay it forward!
• Volunteer your time: We don’t all have money to give, but even if we can find time to volunteer for an organization that is making an impact, we can be a part of something bigger! Check out this list of vetted organizations that is currently looking for volunteers.
• Donate to a nonprofit organization: There are so many community organizations you can support financially throughout the year. Here is a list of vetted organizations that are currently looking for financial donations and a list that is currently looking for item donations.

How do you plan on giving back this season? We would love to hear about it! You can either respond to this email or tag us on social media! (Instagram: @supportblackcharities | Twitter: @supblkcharities)