How to Support Austin Communities on #GivingTuesday

After spending Thanksgiving appreciating our good fortune, it’s incredibly rewarding to then look outside of ourselves. #GivingTuesday, the global day of giving that’s centered around bringing people together around service, is the perfect chance to help our local communities. Following the mindset of graciousness on Thanksgiving and the consumerist frenzy on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Giving Tuesday is an essential day for thinking of others.

Since its inception in 2012, #GivingTuesday has spread to the masses with over 150 countries participating in the program. Last year alone, the movement raised over $300 million for nonprofits. But the idea behind #GivingTuesday isn’t just about donating money — it’s also about promoting volunteer work and community engagement.

I Live Here I Give Here is the official Community Leader in Central Texas for the annual holiday and continues to make significant contributions and inspire generosity here in Austin. Throughout the month of November, the organization has done astounding work with its Acts of Generosity Social Media Challenge, encouraging users to share their acts of goodwill and inspiring others to do the same. I Live Here I Give Here continues to spearhead #GivingTuesday in Austin by listing tons of nonprofits and ways to give back through Amplify Austin.

If you’re still looking for a local organization to contribute to, check out some of our favorite nonprofits that make our city a better place.

For Animal Lovers:

Friends of Austin Animal Center is the nation’s largest no-kill community. The open intake shelter is devoted to caring for Austin’s pets by giving them comfort and chances to find loving accommodations. Each year approximately 18,000 animals who are lost or surrendered make their way into custody at Austin Animal Shelter where they are given refuge before being reunited with their owners, transferring to other adoption centers, or finally heading to their forever homes. You can support this wonderful organization by donating to help improve living conditions for the animals or by volunteering (which, of course, can involve spending time with the adorable creatures).

For the Environmentalists:

The Trail Foundation is dedicated to conserving and enhancing the beloved Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake. This essential foundation recognizes the power and beauty of the trail and how it benefits all of us by offering scenic natural views and memorable community experiences. You can contribute by donating funds to preserve and improve the landscape, or by volunteering and putting your green thumb to use. This year, all Giving Tuesday donations up to $10,000 will be matched thanks to Sinclair Black Family Charitable Trust.

For Your Neighbors:

The Other Ones Foundation is committed to bettering the lives of those experiencing homelessness in Austin. This organization recognizes the struggles of the marginalized members of our community and assists by providing humanitarian aid, case management and employment opportunities. Donate to their current project of building individual shelter units for fellow Austinites to help them lead healthy and purposeful lives.

For even more resources and ways to help out, visit ilivehereigivehere.org and amplifyatx.org.