Mahatma Gandhi once said that “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Giving Tuesday, today, December 1st, is all about this - the essence of giving back, whether time, talent or resources. Why? Outside of the financial benefits of giving to a charity, there are so many physiological benefits.
In the States, over 4500 people participated in a survey 'Do Good Live Well' and the results were very interesting. Of those who volunteered, 68 percent reported that it made them feel physically healthier; 89 percent that it “has improved my sense of well-bring” (e.g., happiness) and 73 percent that it “lowered my stress levels.”
#OakvilleGives is a local initiative, started by a small group of Oakville area charities, that wanted to share their experiences, and thanks to so many who give in so many ways. The impact of working together is far greater than alone, so by building our #OakvilleGives campaign, we wanted to highlight just how many agencies are in Oakville, and more importantly the great work they are doing for so many families in our community.
Most people know about Black Friday and Cyber Monday …now GivingTuesday is a new Canadian movement for giving and volunteering, taking place each year after Cyber Monday. The “Opening day of the giving season,” it is a day where charities, companies and individuals join together to share commitments, rally for favourite causes and think about others.
40% of 2015 donations will take place in the next 6 weeks. That’s a lot of gingerbread! This holiday season about 60% of Canadian adults are expected to donate approximately $5 billion between now and the end of the year, according to Imagine Canada. This annual tide of generosity is essential to thousands of charities and the communities they serve. According to Statistics Canada, Canadians give just under $13 billion annually to charities and nonprofits, meaning that approximately 40% of all donations take place in the last six weeks of the year.
We encourage everyone, consider what you can give - time, talent or resources - and hopefully you will get back far more than you give this season.
For more information on Holiday Giving, visit Imagine Canada