Yesterday marked GivingTuesday's 10th year—a decade of celebrating the global humanity network that reminds us that everyone has something to give, and every act of generosity counts. Though a year-round initiative, the simple idea of giving comes to real light on the first Tuesday following the Thanksgiving holiday—a day dedicated to encouraging people to do good. Over the years—and especially in philanthropic-forward locales such as Sarasota-Manatee—GivingTuesday has grown into a collaborative worldwide movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to show kindness and celebrate generosity in their community and beyond.

With 150 local nonprofits registered members with the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, and over 4,000 more nonprofits and 501c3 organizations in Sarasota County alone, there's no surprise we've nicknamed this altruistic region 'The Giving Coast'. And yesterday's GivingTuesday (#GivingTuesday) saw no shortage of giving from Sarasotans and Manateeans—with many organizations announcing dollar-for-dollar matches and doubling the impact of gifts. 

"We are blown away by our amazing community!" said Child Protection Center (CPC). "We are deeply appreciative for everyone joining us on GivingTuesday and bringing such hope through their generosity and kindness. It's invigorating to know how many children will have the resources to begin their path of healing."

"We are so grateful for our supporters this giving season!" shared ALSO Youth. "Whether it is $5 or $500, your contribution directly and positively impacts the lives of LGBTQ+ youth."

"The gift you give not only goes twice as far but goes to work immediately," said Cat Depot, "enabling us to help thousands of cats get the care they need annually. Thank you for keeping Cat Depot in your minds and on your heart as the season for giving gets underway."

Beyond monetary donatations to great causes, the 10th annual GivingTuesday movement called-to-action small acts of kindness that certainly count too. From helping out a neighbor or colleague, volunteering at a toy or food drive and advocating for an important issue, to sharing a skill, lending a listening ear or planning a fundraiser, every kind of act of goodwill brought the community together yesterday—whether in-person or virtually. And will make an impact not just on a Tuesday, but rounding out these last 31 sleeps of 2021 and setting the tone for the coming new year. 

If you're looking for local nonprofits to support, want to stay up-to-date on grant opportunities and events this giving season, Manatee Community Foundation, The Community Foundation of Sarasota County and Gulf Coast Community Foundation are great resources to utilize. 

"We think of our donors as family. And we work closely with our family of donors to ensure that their generous gifts have the most impact possible," said Kirstin Fulkerson, Senior VP for Philanthropy at Gulf Coast Community Foundation. "This time of year, many of our donors give to Gulf Coast to replenish their funds to maximize their charitable dollars and minimize taxes. Our hard-working, local nonprofit partners benefit and receive grants from our donors year-round. We are so grateful for our big, generous family that transforms our region through their philanthropy!"