Giving Tuesday, a global day of generosity, occurs the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. This year, it’s observed on Dec. 3. After Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Giving Tuesday shifts the focus from consumerism to kindness and generosity.
Churches and youth ministries can use Giving Tuesday to teach stewardship and serving. Through creative campaigns, teens gain hands-on experience while making a difference. Plus, they can help fund projects that support their community and beyond.
So let’s look at the background and purpose of Giving Tuesday. Then we’ll share practical ways youth ministries can harness the event.
What Is Giving Tuesday?
Giving Tuesday, launched in 2012 by the 92nd Street Y in New York City and the United Nations Foundation, is a global movement of generosity. Individuals, organizations, and businesses support charities and causes they care about.
Giving Tuesday is a reminder to make a positive impact, especially during the holidays. For churches and youth groups, the day offers lessons in biblical giving and Christian support.
Why Should You Participate in Giving Tuesday?
Youth ministries can harness Giving Tuesday for biblical teaching. Plus, it’s a great way to fund vital programs. Participation lets teens:
- Understand stewardship. Giving Tuesday teaches teens that giving isn’t just financial. It can include time, talent, and other resources.
- Make an impact. By supporting programs that matter to them, teens witness the impact of their efforts. That might be through local missions, church projects, or international outreach.
- Develop fundraising skills. Teens gain hands-on experience, from planning to communication.
Through causes that teens value, you inspire them to take ownership of projects and feel connected to the outcomes.
5 Creative Ideas for Giving Tuesday
A youth ministry Giving Tuesday campaign will raise funds while developing faithful young stewards. Here are some suggestions:
1. Mission-Driven Campaigns: “Give to Make a Difference”
First, focus on something teens are passionate about. For example:
- Support local needs. Partner with a shelter or food pantry, setting a financial goal for Giving Tuesday. Teens can organize and lead the campaign, sharing stories of how the organization uses donations.
- Fund a mission trip. Giving Tuesday is excellent for kickstarting fundraising efforts. Teens can tell congregants why they feel called to serve and what they’ll be doing.
Tip: Promote the campaign on social media and at services and events.
2. Peer-to-Peer Fundraising
Next, ask each teen or small group to reach a goal by contacting friends, family, and church members. This empowers teens to serve as ambassadors for the church and youth group. Examples include:
- Scholarships for camp or retreats. For some teens, finances are tight. So use Giving Tuesday to ensure all youth can attend special events.
- Youth mental health programs. Raising funds for counseling, workshops, or speakers benefits the whole community.
Tip: Equip teens with personalized donation pages, email templates, and social media graphics. Offer small incentives or recognition for reaching goals.
3. “Give and Serve” Day: Combine Fundraising With Service
Giving Tuesday can be more than a fundraising event. It’s also a way to give time. For example:
- Community cleanup. Spruce up a local park, beach, or neighborhood. Sponsors can pledge donations for each bag of trash collected.
- Holiday cheer project. Have teens assemble care packages for people in need. Donors can give a certain amount for each package.
Tip: Invite the congregation to support kids by serving with them. This makes the campaign more personal and brings people together.
