Reprinted with permission from Brunswick County Early College High School’s The Firebird Times.

As we quickly approach the holiday season, we think of the many days on which we celebrate. We think of all the fun that we have, all the joy that each holiday brings, and the traditions that are unique to us. But, a holiday that is often overlooked is Giving Tuesday or World Giving Day.  Giving Tuesday takes place on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving and is also called the Global Generosity Movement. This year World Giving Day will take place on December 3rd.

But, why is this holiday so important, you might ask? Until doing more research, I had the same question. Giving Tuesday began in 2012 to encourage people to give back after they spent Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping. It was to entice people, after spending a lot of money on themselves and their families, to help the less fortunate. What began as just a simple idea has turned into a global movement that encourages people to give back to their communities.

Neither schools nor businesses typically close in observance of the day. But, in my opinion, that needs to change. Not because I want an extra day off from school to do whatever I want, but rather, I would love a day when I can do my part by giving back to the community. We need to observe the day on which we are supposed to give back when we are supposed to help make the world a better place, one service project at a time.

So what can you do? You can volunteer at a local nonprofit, make blankets for the less fortunate, or even donate toys to children. There are so many ways that you can give back to your community that can make such a difference. You can be the reason that somebody has food on their plate, clothes on their back, a blanket to keep warm, or even a toy with which to find enjoyment. So, I urge you to give back, focus outward, and, above that, share your happiness in the holiday season with everyone you can. Even a small gesture can have a huge impact.