MAINE, USA — GivingTuesday is a day that's all about giving back to the organizations doing important work in our community.
It started in 2012 as way to do good, and has since grown into a global movement that inspires people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity.
That movement is reaching organizations in Maine hoping that the day can encourage people to continue to give throughout the year.
"Some of my neighbors don't have what they need," Carey Nason, the executive director of Saint Andre Home, said.
Nason is hoping Giving Tuesday can not only provide support but raise awareness about issues in our community.
"We help people impacted by human trafficking, exploitation, sexual abuse, and domestic violence. So when people give on days like this, Giving Tuesday, it helps us help meet families," Nason said.
Through the organization's flagship program CourageLIVES they provide food, clothing, and other resources to survivors and their families, but that doesn't come without the support from people in the community.
"If you can pay if forward in a small way or provide, let's say, a gift of a meal to somebody, it's amazing," Jen Burke, one of the leaders spearheading the Maine Credit Unions' Campaign for Ending Hunger, said.
The money raised from the campaign goes to food pantries and school backpack programs across the state.
"The spirit of Giving Tuesday should really last throughout the season," Burke said.
"Today is a great day if you're really thinking about how to support your community," Caroline King, the executive director of the American Red Cross for Northern and Eastern Maine, said.
King says giving your time or donating blood can make a difference.
"I can't imagine what would happen if your mom or your dad or your cousin or your neighbor needed blood and it wasn't there," King said.
If you would like to support Giving Tuesday, consider donating to a charity or organization of your choice.