THE GIFT OF GIVING
An Alternative to Traditional Presents
That most wonderful time of year is upon us. No, I am not referring to Christmas Day. I am referring to that most wonderful time for charities when people across the globe give their hard-earned money to help with whatever the mission they are supporting. Aptly named Giving Tuesday, the largest single non-profit donation day of the year falls after right Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
Yes, it is hard to believe that over three billion dollars will be donated to help organizations across the globe on this single day; especially after seeing the endless images of people climbing all over each other, often getting into fights, to get to the best Black Friday deals. That is why this year we have decided to put together a list of organizations that we work with whom we know are responsible and will use your donations for their mission statements rather than at a high administrative cost.
You can either donate to these organizations for their Giving Tuesday initiatives, or you can make a donation in someone else’s name as a gift to give them this holiday season. Sometimes the best gift you can give someone during the holiday season is the gift of giving. This is especially true for those Secret Santa gifts we all have challenges shopping for!
GREY2KUSA
Formed in 2001, GREY2K USA Worldwide is the largest greyhound protection organization in the world. As a non-profit entity, we work to pass stronger greyhound protection laws and end the cruelty of dog racing on both national and international levels. We also promote the rescue and adoption of greyhounds across the globe. Greyhound racing is cruel and inhumane and should be prohibited. GREY2K USA was the first organization to successfully outlaw dog racing using the ballot initiative process. In November 2008, the citizens of Massachusetts chose compassion over cruelty and voted 56% - 44% to close Raynham and Wonderland Greyhound Parks. On November 6, 2018, Floridians voted 69% - 31% to phase out dog racing in the Sunshine State, ordering the closure of twelve historic tracks.
Since their formation, dozens of American dog tracks have closed for live racing, and dog racing is now illegal in 43 states. We also engage all around the globe to end the cruelty of commercial dog racing in the five other jurisdictions where it currently exists and have blocked the introduction of greyhound gambling to countries such as South Africa, Jamaica and the Philippines. Info: grey2kusa.org
BEST FRIENDS ANIMAL SOCIETY
Best Friends Animal Society is a leading animal welfare organization working to end the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters and make the country no-kill in 2025. Founded in 1984, Best Friends is a pioneer in the no-kill movement and has helped reduce the number of animals killed in shelters from an estimated 17 million per year to 415,000 last year. Best Friends runs lifesaving programs across the country, as well as the nation’s largest no-kill animal sanctuary. Working collaboratively with a network of more than 5,000 animal welfare and shelter partners, and community members nationwide, Best Friends is working to Save Them All®.
Info: bestfriends.org
MYFACE
Since 1951, myFace has been supporting the life journey of children and adults with facial differences, and their families, by ensuring everyone has access to the resources they need and deserve. Having a facial difference, whether from birth, or due to an accident or disease, can impact an individual’s ability to breathe, eat, hear, see - or simply to walk into a room without fear of judgment. myFace provides a wide range of free programs and services - from access to comprehensive medical, orthodontic and psychosocial support to online resources and education - while building a vibrant community that allows each to be valued, respected, included, and empowered to achieve their greatest potential. myFace also provides these vital services so that everyone in the craniofacial community knows they are not alone. Info: myface.org
JAMES BEARD FOUNDATION
The James Beard Foundation (JBF) is a 501(c)3 organization that celebrates and supports the people behind America’s food culture, while pushing for new standards in the restaurant industry to create a future where all have the opportunity to thrive. Established over 30 years ago, the Foundation has highlighted the centrality of food culture in our daily lives and is committed to supporting a resilient and flourishing industry that honors its diverse communities. By amplifying new voices, celebrating those leading the way, and supporting those on the path to do so, the Foundation is working to create a more equitable and sustainable future, what we call Good Food for Good®. JBF brings its mission to life through the annual Awards, industry and community-focused initiatives and programs, advocacy, partnerships, and events across the country. Info: jamesbeard.org
ANIMAL CARE CENTERS OF NYC
Founded in 1995, Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to end animal homelessness in New York City. As the only open-admission shelter serving New York City, ACC provides a haven for thousands of homeless, abandoned, and neglected animals each year, regardless of age, breed, or medical condition.
With a team of compassionate staff and volunteers, ACC offers a comprehensive range of services, including adoption, fostering, veterinary care, behavior training, and community outreach. Founded on the principles of compassion, integrity, and respect for all living creatures, ACC strives to create a more compassionate and humane society by raising awareness about animal welfare issues and providing resources to support pet owners and communities. Info: nycacc.org
FDNY FOUNDATION
The FDNY Foundation, established in 1981 is the official not-for-profit of the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Our mission is to promote fire and life safety education and help the FDNY better protect New York. The FDNY Foundation funds programs that advance the FDNY’s goals, which include maintaining operational excellence, reaching out to the community with an array of fire and life safety programs, and ensuring that our firefighters and EMS personnel have the best available training and equipment. Info: fdnyfoundation.org
NEW YORK CITY
POLICE FOUNDATION
The New York City Police Foundation is an independent nonprofit organization that provides resources for the NYPD to innovate and enhance the quality of its services; build bridges with the community; and make New York City a safer place to live, work and visit.
The Police Foundation provides resources for four core areas of support which advance programs to prevent violent crime, thwart terrorism, and safeguard the people of our city; Strengthen communities by building relationships and trust between the NYPD and community members, including youth across the five boroughs; Enhance leadership, wellness and training within the NYPD; and Innovate technology and police services to protect the public and the police. Info: nycpolicefoundation.org