Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday — it’s time to take a break from the shopping insanity and think outside the boxes and bows.

Giving Tuesday is a movement dedicated to just that by changing how people think about the holiday season and encouraging them to take action by giving back to nonprofits in their area, particularly in a year like this one.

"We see nonprofits being creative and resilient, and most continue to provide vital services under extraordinarily stressful times," Heather Larkin, President and CEO of the Arkansas Community Foundation, told Soirée in 2021. 

"Many organizations may have been using operating reserves to stay afloat, so as those funds begin to run out, the situation may change. The full effect of the pandemic on Arkansas nonprofits probably won’t be known for another year or two."

So hit the breaks for a moment this holiday season and think on the causes you care about, the community organizations you use every day that rely on the help of the ones they serve. Then consider giving a little (or a lot) of money or time to make sure they can keep up the good work. 

If you need some inspiration, browse our 2022/2023 Arkansas Giving Guide highlighting local nonprofits and how you can help.

To find out how to participate in Giving Tuesday, click here. And if you’re interested in more ways to help locally, follow the hashtag #GivingTuesdayAR to learn about the needs of your own communities.