Join the Giving Tuesday Movement to Support Local Nonprofits

On December 2, 2023, the global generosity movement known as Giving Tuesday will encourage charitable contributions to nonprofits, including local organizations like Serving Seniors. As many individuals face economic challenges, the need for support has never been greater, making this initiative crucial for sustaining vital services.

Understanding the Importance of Giving Tuesday

Founded in 2012 by Henry Timms at Harvard Kennedy School, Giving Tuesday promotes philanthropy worldwide. Over the years, it has gained momentum, inspiring thousands of nonprofits, such as Serving Seniors, to rally community support. Serving Seniors, which provides meals and support services to older adults, will host one of the few in-person events in San Diego at the Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center. Volunteers will prepare holiday food baskets and practical gifts from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., fostering a spirit of community and generosity.

Research indicates that nearly one-third of all donations to nonprofits occur in December. Furthermore, approximately one in four organizations rely on the holiday season for half of their annual fundraising. For Serving Seniors, this period is essential, particularly as demand for their services has surged due to rising costs affecting older adults on fixed incomes.

Making Informed Giving Choices

Before donating to any nonprofit, including Serving Seniors, it is advisable to conduct due diligence to ensure contributions are effective. Utilizing resources such as Charity Navigator and the BBB Wise Giving Alliance can help assess an organization’s credibility. Top-rated nonprofits often achieve a 100% rating on Charity Navigator and comply with the 20 Standards for Charity Accountability set by Give.org. Serving Seniors maintains a presence on these platforms, reflecting its commitment to transparency.

Individuals should also verify a nonprofit’s operating status through the Internal Revenue Service and state nonprofit registries. In California, the Attorney General oversees charity regulations, ensuring organizations are compliant and authorized to receive donations. This precaution is crucial, as some entities may not have current legal standing to solicit contributions.

To safeguard personal information, donors are encouraged to avoid clicking on links provided via social media or unsolicited emails. Instead, visiting the nonprofit’s official website and subscribing to their newsletter can provide reliable updates on their initiatives. It is essential to never disclose sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers or bank details, to anyone soliciting donations directly.

Utilizing tracked payment methods, such as credit cards or checks, can help maintain a record of donations. Regularly monitoring bank and credit card statements ensures that charges align with agreed-upon contributions, preventing unauthorized transactions.

While crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe can be appealing, they may lack the verification processes that established nonprofits must adhere to. Serving Seniors makes its annual report and financial information readily available on its website, emphasizing its commitment to accountability. Organizations that do not provide clear financial data may warrant reconsideration before donations are made.

In a landscape of approximately 1.5 million nonprofits in the United States, it is vital to support local organizations that address pressing community needs. Each contribution, no matter how small, can significantly impact the lives of those served. For over 16 years, Melinda Forstey, the president and chief executive officer of Serving Seniors, has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of community support. She emphasizes that the holiday season, in particular, highlights the importance of coming together to do good.

By participating in Giving Tuesday, individuals can contribute to a shared purpose, fostering collaboration among community members to uplift those who may be struggling. As 2023 draws to a close, consider joining this global initiative to make a difference in the lives of older adults who often find themselves in difficult circumstances.