The excitement of the holiday season is palpable. Many people look forward to this time of year so they can deck their homes in lights and find gifts that will delight friends and family.

The spirit of giving that pervades the holiday season extends to Giving Tuesday, which comes on the heels of the busiest shopping days of the year. According to the Giving Tuesday website, Giving Tuesday is a movement that “reimagines a world built upon shared humanity and generosity.” Organizers feel that generosity is the avenue through which humanity can collectively strengthen its social fabric. Those who would like to harness the spirit of charitable giving can explore these ways to give back.

Get involved where it started

Giving Tuesday started with a team from the Belfer Center for Innovation & Social Impact in New York City. In November 2012, these individuals implored nonprofits, influencers and businesses to inspire others to get involved with acts of giving. The organization has many initiatives that people can support in addition to the original Giving Tuesday. Learn more at www.92ny.org/belfer-center.

Plant a community garden

Food insecurity is a problem in many neighborhoods across the country. Petition local city councils for a portion of green spaces to devote to a community garden to grow produce for those who may need it. Doing so can foster a sense of camaraderie in communities.

Start a caremongering movement

Caremongering began as a community-led social movement to address health and social needs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. Caremongering is designed to help vulnerable people and can include anything from grocery shopping for those with mobility issues to virtually or physically socializing with others to combat social isolation. Those who want to caremonger can do many other things, like run emergency errands or help with childcare.

Donate goods and supplies

Areas of the southern United States experienced extreme devastation with the one-two punch of hurricanes Helene and Milton in early October. Natural disasters can displace families and push individuals to the brink as supplies become scarce. It is likely recovery efforts will be underway for the next several months, underscoring the importance of donating to aid organizations and volunteer efforts.