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Special Advertising Section | Sunday, November 30, 2025310 ways to make a difference on GivingTuesday and beyondSince it started as a hashtag in 2012, GivingTuesday, the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, has become one of the biggest fundraising days of the year for nonprofits in the U.S. This year, the annual event takes place on Tuesday, Dec. 2.GivingTuesday%u2019s global network of more than 110 country leaders and thousands of community leaders collaborates year-round, with the shared goal of building a world where generosity is part of everyday life.In 2024, GivingTuesday participants showed the far-reaching power of generosity, far exceeding its donation records. In the U.S. alone, $3.6 billion was donated by 36.1 million participants, bringing the total raised on GivingTuesday since 2012 to $18.5 billion.Generosity doesn%u2019t have to be grandiose or complicated %u2014 small, thoughtful actions can create ripple effects of kindness. Here are 10 simple ways to start.1. Give blood when you canDonating blood is one of the quickest and most impactful ways to save lives. It%u2019s free, takes little time and can make a huge difference. If you%u2019re eligible, look for local blood drives, health centers or hospitals where you can donate. If you%u2019re unsure where to start, visit redcross.org to find donation locations near you.2. Host or join a community cleanupA community cleanup is a great way to contribute to your local environment. Whether it%u2019s at a park, beach or neighborhood, gathering a few friends or neighbors to pick up litter for a couple of hours can have a lasting positive effect. Look for local cleanup events or organize your own. Search for events using keywords like %u201c[your city] community cleanup,%u201d or check with your local Chamber of Commerce or tourism board.3. Support local small businessesSmall businesses are the backbone of vibrant communities. When you shop or dine locally, you%u2019re helping sustain the local economy and supporting entrepreneurs. Whether it%u2019s a momand-pop shop, your favorite local spot to grab coffee or a family-owned restaurant, spending your money in your community strengthens it and helps create a stronger, more resilient local economy.4. Check in on a friend or neighborSometimes a simple %u201cHow are you?%u201d can make a big difference. A quick text or phone call, or even dropping by to say hello, can help someone feel seen and supported, especially those who might be going through a difficult time. Make it a part of your regular routine to check in with friends, family or neighbors, particularly those who live alone or may not have a strong support system. By incorporating this small act into your daily or weekly routine, you%u2019ll not only brighten someone%u2019s day, but you%u2019ll also create a lasting habit of kindness. 5. Cook a meal for someoneCooking a meal for someone who could use a little extra care shows kindness in a very personal way. You could prepare a meal for a sick friend, a new parent, a caregiver or anyone going through a tough time. If you%u2019re far away, consider sending a meal or groceries using food delivery services. A warm, comforting meal can brighten someone%u2019s day and offer emotional support when they need it most.6. Donate items you no longer useThe end of the year is a great time to declutter and make space, and donating items you no longer use can help others in need. Whether it%u2019s clothes, furniture or books, consider giving your gently used items to local shelters, community centers or directly to someone who will benefit from them. Your unused items could make a huge difference in someone%u2019s life.7. Volunteer your timeWhether at a food bank, animal shelter or community event, volunteering is a powerful way to give back. Even if it%u2019s just once a month, your time can make a huge impact. Use platforms like Volunteer Match to find opportunities in your area.8. Compliment someoneA simple compliment can brighten someone%u2019s day and make them feel appreciated. Compliment someone%u2019s hard work, their style or even their kindness. Genuine compliments spread positivity, boost confidence and inspire others to share the love. It%u2019s a small gesture with a powerful ripple effect.9. Offer skills or services for freeUse your talents or professional skills to help others in need. Whether it%u2019s tutoring a student, mowing an elderly neighbor%u2019s lawn or offering free photography sessions to a local shelter to help get their animals adopted, sharing your expertise can make a significant impact.10. Spread awarenessIf there%u2019s a cause or charity that you care about, help spread the word. Share it on social media, encourage others to get involved or amplify campaigns that resonate with you. By bringing attention to important causes %u2014 whether it%u2019s for disaster relief, animal welfare or social justice %u2014 you can help raise awareness and inspire others to act.GIVING GUIDE | This section was produced by ST Content Studio. Contact us at 206-464-2400 or advertising@seattletimes.com.