Saving the world is hard work. #GivingTuesday provides an opportunity to do your part through service and gifts of time, talent, or treasure to become a philanthropist. By definition, a philanthropist is “a person who seeks to promote the welfare of others, especially by the generous donation of money to good causes.” The definition of philanthropy is “the love of humankind”. As a giver, you are the real beneficiary since whatever you give comes back tenfold.

This December 3rd, the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, we celebrate #GivingTuesday, the international day of charitable giving. Started in 2012, the day reminds us to look beyond the commercialism of the holidays and serve others.

Join millions of fellow philanthropists who perform remarkable acts of generosity and philanthropy daily in every community and neighborhood to make a better world. These superheroes don’t wear capes or have the benefit of invisibility, but they do appear to have wings on their feet and are able to expand the number of hours in their days and weeks in service. Their stories inspire us and remind us we too can make an impact in our personal work and everyday lives with our time, talent, treasure, and acts of kindness given with love.

This time of year, you will probably receive a lot of requests filling your email or mailbox asking for support. Rather than ignore them all, become a conscious giver. What do you really care about? It might be education, healthcare, children, affordable housing, veterans, the environment, or animal welfare. Find a way to support a nonprofit organization that is doing the hard work that will make a difference in those things you care about. According to the National Center for Charitable Statistics, there are more than 1.5 million nonprofits in the United States. These organizations work tirelessly to secure resources for millions of Americans. They need your help and your gifts.

Giving becomes a habit of the heart and studies show that extends your life. Whatever you can give is appreciated. At the same time, it will make you feel really good knowing you have done something to help another.

Celebrate #GivingTuesday with an expression of your love for others. This is an appropriate observance coming the week after Thanksgiving, this nation’s commemoration and expression of gratitude for the remarkable gifts we have been given. Show a little love and appreciation by giving.

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