For many Americans the days after Thanksgiving are devoted to bargain shopping before the holidays. Black Friday deals attract millions of shoppers each year and millions more buy items online on Cyber Monday. Following the shopping spree weekend there is Giving Tuesday, a day when people are encouraged to give back to the community. A globally recognized event, Giving Tuesday marks the beginning of the charitable season when many people look to help those in need. Those interested in participating can get involved through donations to charity, volunteering at a local organization or even by spreading the word on what Giving Tuesday is all about. Oftentimes recognized as #GivingTuesday, the event hopes to gain even more popularity through “the power of social media and collaboration.”

While Giving Tuesday 2017 has officially ended, their website along with their message of giving remains valid throughout the days leading up to Giving Tuesday 2018 and beyond. Givingtuesday.org provides a list of organizations throughout the United States which individuals can donate to or volunteer with. From Youth Theaters to helping the children of Syria, there is a wide variety of nonprofit organizations in the Kansas City area to give back to this holiday season.