The setup
The global generosity movement started in 2012 as a simple idea to create a day that encourages people to do good, according to GivingTuesday, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the holiday.
Now, thousands of nonprofits, grassroots organizations, small businesses and individuals participate in the movement every year in the United States. People can show their generosity in a variety of ways, including helping a neighbor, volunteering for a specific cause or donating funds to an organization.
Giving back
In Houston, here are 9 organizations in need to consider donating to on Giving Tuesday.
- Houston SPCA: The nonprofit organization provides animals in need with veterinary services, animal cruelty investigations and 24-hour rescue ambulances. All donations made on Tuesday will be matched by an anonymous donor up to a maximum amount to help twice as many animals.
- Urban Harvest Market: This local farmers market teaches and promotes the benefits of organic gardening, ecological land management and healthy food choices. Donations made Tuesday will be matched up to $5,000.
- Arthouse Houston: The nonprofit organization enriches and preserves Houston's artistic film community and art spaces through public outreach, education and programming. Aside from monetary donations, residents can volunteer their time or help with the Cinema Revival fundraiser.
- Houston Public Library: This advocacy and fundraising group helps support the Houston Public Library system with fundraising and donation efforts.
- Houston Police Foundation: The organization helps support the Houston Police Department. This year, the foundation is asking for donations to bolster the Houston Police Dive Team, which is responsible for vehicle and body recoveries, underwater evidence and flood response.
- Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston: This nonprofit organization brings people of diverse faith traditions together for collaboration and service. Donations made Tuesday will support homebound seniors with nutritious meals and companionship through its Meals on Wheels program.
- Keep Houston Beautiful: The city's leading organization in beautification, litter reduction and recycling reduction is seeking donations to continue efforts to help foster awareness of creating a cleaner and healthier Houston.
- Houston Dynamo FC: The Houston Dynamo & Dash Charities is looking to raise $5,000 to support the youth development program through the education and soccer pillar. Donations will go towards providing soccer equipment for underserved children in Houston.
- Gigi's Playhouse Houston: The education center provides free programming and support for individuals with Down Syndrome and their families.
