A Guide to Charitable Giving During the Holidays

The holiday season and spirit of giving bring people together, encouraging generosity and compassion. For nonprofits like Foundation for Senior Living (FSL), this time of year is crucial. More than ever, we rely on support to fulfill our mission of helping seniors live with dignity and independence. Whether through donations, volunteer work, or spreading awareness, there are many ways to give back this holiday season. Here’s how you can contribute, especially during Giving Tuesday and the giving season.

What Is Giving Tuesday, and Why Is It Important?

Giving Tuesday is a global day of generosity, celebrated annually on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving in the United States. Created in 2012 as a counterpoint to the consumer-driven Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Giving Tuesday promotes acts of kindness, charity, and community support. In 2023, Giving Tuesday generated a staggering $3.1 billion in donations, showing how impactful this day has become for nonprofits across the country.

Giving Tuesday marks the beginning of what is known as the giving season, a period lasting through the holidays until December 31. This season provides nonprofits a chance to connect with supporters and fundraise for their missions, often setting the tone for the upcoming year. For organizations like FSL, contributions during the gift-giving holidays can make a profound difference.

Why Year-End Charitable Giving Matters

The end of the year is a pivotal time for nonprofit fundraising. According to the latest Giving USA report, charitable giving in the United States totaled $557.16 billion in 2023. Of this amount, the majority was donated during the last quarter, proving how the holiday season holds substantial weight for nonprofits. In fact, Givebutter reports that more than 30% of annual giving occurs in the last month of the year, with 10% happening in just the last three days. This surge of donations allows nonprofits to finish the year strong and ensure that they have the necessary resources to plan and carry out programs for the upcoming year.

For many supporters, the end of the year also means potential tax deductions. Donating to nonprofits like FSL allows individuals to make an impact while benefiting from possible tax incentives. Every dollar given helps provide critical services to seniors who may otherwise lack housing, healthcare, or community support.

How to Give Back During the Holidays

If you’re looking for ways to give back this holiday season, there are several meaningful options to consider:

Direct Donations: Financial contributions to organizations like FSL are the most impactful. A donation directly supports vital services, ensuring that seniors have access to resources and support.
Monthly Giving Programs: A recurring monthly donation spreads support over the year, sustaining a nonprofit’s operations and programs.
Volunteering: Many nonprofits need extra hands during the holidays. From helping with events to delivering meals, there are various volunteer roles that let you experience the holiday season and spirit of giving first-hand.
Matching Gift Programs: Some companies match donations made by employees, effectively doubling your impact. Check if your employer has a matching gift program.
Holiday Gifts That Benefit Charity: Consider giving gifts that support charities. For example, making a donation in someone’s name or buying products where a percentage goes to nonprofits can turn your gift into something more meaningful.
Tax Credit Donation: Take advantage of the available Arizona State Charitable Tax Credit by donating to qualified nonprofits like FSL, allowing you to give back while potentially reducing your year-end tax burden.

Holiday Charity Ideas to Support Seniors

Supporting seniors in need, especially during the gift-giving holidays, can be a deeply rewarding way to celebrate the season. Here are some holiday charitable giving ideas that directly benefit seniors:

Adopt-a-Senior Programs: Organizations often run programs where donors can “adopt” a senior for the holidays, providing gifts or necessities that may be otherwise out of reach.
Sponsor a Meal Program: Many seniors face food insecurity, especially during the holidays. Contributing to a meal program through FSL ensures no senior goes hungry.
Host a Fundraiser: Social media fundraisers and personal crowdfunding pages are effective ways to raise awareness and funds. Invite friends, family, and colleagues to join you in supporting a cause.

Organizations like FSL focus on providing comprehensive support for seniors, and your contribution can help us expand our reach and impact. For instance, a donation during the holidays might support programs to reduce isolation among seniors, improve their housing security, or provide essential healthcare services.

Examples of the Impact of Holiday Charitable Giving

Charitable giving during the holidays has shown tangible impacts on communities. According to Neon One, in 2023, donations spiked not only in quantity but also in individual gift sizes, with the average donation reaching over $100 on Giving Tuesday. These contributions funded a wide range of projects, from emergency relief programs to long-term sustainability efforts in local communities.

For FSL, even small donations provide substantial benefits. A $25 donation, for example, could help purchase groceries for a senior in need, while $100 could support a week of in-home care services for a senior facing health challenges.

The Benefits of Charitable Giving for Donors

While charitable giving impacts those in need, it can also have positive effects on the donors themselves. Engaging in holiday giving allows people to connect with their communities and see their contributions make a difference. Studies have shown that generosity can improve mood and overall well-being, enhancing the holiday experience by reinforcing the joy of giving. In addition, holiday gifts that benefit charity can make family celebrations more meaningful, with a focus on supporting values of kindness and compassion.

For those looking to make a lasting impact, consider becoming a part of FSL’s monthly giving program, where even modest contributions make a difference over time. Alternatively, explore the possibility of volunteer work to experience the immediate impact of your efforts.

Get Involved: How to Give During the Holidays

If you’re wondering how to give during the holidays, start by choosing a nonprofit that aligns with your values. FSL provides direct support to seniors in need, addressing critical needs like housing, health, and well-being. You can make a one-time donation, join our monthly giving program, or share our mission with others to expand our network of supporters.

No matter the size of your contribution, your involvement matters. The holiday season and spirit of giving offer a chance to bring hope and joy to seniors who may otherwise feel isolated or unsupported. By contributing to organizations like FSL, you participate in the mission of creating a more caring and compassionate community.

As you consider how to give back during the holidays, remember the impact that even a small gesture can have. The giving season presents a unique opportunity to support causes that make a difference, allowing your holiday spirit to reach those who need it most.

This year, make the commitment to bring warmth, security, and care to seniors in need. Join FSL in celebrating a holiday season filled with hope, generosity, and compassion.

Established in 1974, Foundation for Senior Living provides integrated, customized care for those who need it in the Phoenix area. We offer a wide range of home- and community-based services, including:

All of these programs enable Arizonans of all backgrounds to age with confidence. If you or someone you know is struggling to have their needs met, don’t hesitate to contact us to find out how we can help. And if you are able, consider donating or volunteering your time to our mission. We can’t wait to work with you!

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