The holidays are fast approaching, and with them the usual encouragements to spend money on gifts and goodies.
Now, there鈥檚 nothing wrong with enjoying the season and surprising a loved one with that perfect gift, but it鈥檚 undeniable how inextricably linked Christmas has become with commercialism. From Black Friday and Cyber Monday to the desperate search for a mall parking spot any weekend in December, it鈥檚 obvious that celebrating the holidays has become synonymous with spending money on stuff.
And that鈥檚 not really what it鈥檚 supposed to be all about, is it?
This Tuesday (Nov. 27) is Giving Tuesday, a national day of giving, where people are encouraged to support their favourite local charities in whatever way they can. It鈥檚 a chance to step back from the shopping and consider how you can partake in the gift of giving at the community level.
One of my favourite things about Giving Tuesday is how everyone can make it their own. Are you into the arts? Then consider supporting your favourite theatre or art gallery, most of which are non-profits or have charitable branches. Big on environmental sustainability? There鈥檚 no shortage of organizations tackling this huge issue that could use your help. Are you a committed proponent of education? There鈥檚 a charity out there eager for you to chip in.
Whatever you are passionate about, there is a way to become involved and offer your help.
And the best part is, it鈥檚 not all about donating money either. Not everyone can afford to part with funds, so maybe consider donating your time instead. Volunteers are such a vital part of what charitable organizations do, and volunteering is a great way to get involved, meet new people and help foster a sense of community. What could be more representative of the holiday spirit?
I know Victorians are generous. We donate abundantly to our hundreds of local charities. We volunteer at rates above many other communities. The civil society sector is an enormous economic and social driver in our region. We do well at doing good.
Let鈥檚 keep it up. This Giving Tuesday, I encourage each of us to join in and help out this holiday season, and beyond. Use the day as an excuse to send some money to your favourite charity or finally fill out that volunteer application you鈥檝e been considering.
It鈥檚 the perfect way to celebrate the season of giving.
Sandra Richardson is CEO of the Victoria Foundation.
