LEWISTON, ID – GivingTuesday, a global movement promoting generosity, is once again gaining momentum in Idaho and around the world. The initiative, created in 2012, began as a simple idea: a day dedicated to doing good. Over the past decade, it has grown into a worldwide effort that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity throughout the year.
The movement operates through a distributed network of leaders, with official GivingTuesday national efforts in 80 countries. People and organizations participate from every country in the world. In the United States, 300 community campaigns bring together nonprofits, foundations, grassroots groups, small businesses, and individuals to support local causes. Youth-led efforts also play a role through #GivingTuesdaySpark.
GivingTuesday has continued to expand its reach and impact. In 2024, the GivingTuesday Data Commons estimates that a record-breaking $3.6 billion was donated in the US alone, which brings the sum of GivingTuesday donations since its launch in 2012 to more than $18.5 billion. About 36.1 million adults participated, contributing money, goods, skills, time, and acts of kindness. The GivingTuesday Data Commons, which includes more than 300 partners and 50 global data labs, tracks giving trends and serves as a hub for research and innovation around generosity.
Organizers say the day inspires people to give. Of those aware of GivingTuesday, 84 percent reported being motivated to be more charitable, and a 2019 Horizon Media study found that more than half said they donate because it allows them to be part of a larger movement. GivingTuesday has also supported emergency responses. On May 5, 2020, during #GivingTuesdayNow, $503 million in online donations were made in the U.S. to address needs arising from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Idaho nonprofits are encouraging residents to take part. The Idaho Foodbank says the day is an important opportunity to help ensure families across the state have access to nutritious food during the busy holiday season. This year, every donation will be matched up to $20,000 by The Chalfant Family and Friends of the Foodbank.
The Idaho Center on Disabilities and Human Development is highlighting eight ways Idahoans can get involved. Suggestions include donating to a favorite charity, giving blood, volunteering time, donating food, helping neighbors, expressing gratitude, supporting animal shelters, and performing simple acts of kindness. The center encourages participants to share their experiences on social media using the #GivingTuesday tag.
The Idaho Nonprofit Center is also urging residents to consider making a donation to a local nonprofit in someone’s honor as a holiday gift.
The Neighbors Feeding Neighbors Community Food Drive is also underway in the Lewis-Clark Valley, with organizers encouraging donations to support the Community Action Partnership Food Bank in Lewiston and the Asotin County Food Bank in Clarkston. The drive aims to strengthen food-bank services on both sides of the river as demand for assistance remains high. Residents can donate non-perishable food items or make financial contributions, which help provide food boxes and emergency distribution throughout the season. Donations may be made directly at each food bank or online by clicking here.
GivingTuesday follows traditional shopping days like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, offering people a chance to give back after the start of the holiday shopping season. Organizers say every act of generosity counts, whether through financial gifts, volunteerism, or small gestures that strengthen communities.
