"Giving Tuesday" gives true meaning to the holidays

      We have "Gray Thursday", "Black Friday" and "Cyber Monday."   For those of us that find the shopping blitz at this time of the year revolting, we now have a more important day in "Giving Tuesday."  This year many non profits and foundations are using today to remind us that this is a season of giving as much as a season of getting.  I know I am already tired of the advertising for the Holidays.  We have just gotten past the commercial blitz for gambling in Maryland!
     "Giving Tuesday" comes at a time when many charities are struggling to meet their needs in this difficult economy.  Unfortunately charitable giving is seen as a discretionary expense and is one of the first things to go in a down economy.  The discussions in Congress these days of eliminating or capping deductions for charitable giving would only make this situation worse.  Charitable giving has been something that has defined the American culture and now more than ever there should be an emphasis on the importance of giving to others.

    Giving Tuesday is more than just writing a check but an encouragement to volunteer your time or becoming directly involved in helping someone at this time of the year.  Many organizations give you an opportunity to give directly to a family.  Toys for Tots  is one of those organizations that makes it easy to give to make a better Christmas for kids in our area.  Toys for Tots used to supply toys for an organization I worked with in Baltimore City and I saw how some years the toys were fewer because of the economy.            Howard County Children's Services at 410-313-1940 accept toys for children.  Community Action Council at 410-313-6440 can connect you with a family in need.  The Salvation Army of Howard County at 443-656-3376 works with many needy family year around.  Finally Grassroots can identify a family to help.

P.S.
From the HoCo Library:

In the spirit of #GivingTuesday, don't forget to donate to the Friends! 
As a member of the Friends, you'll help support meaningful educational opportunities that HCLS would not otherwise be able to offer. This innovative curriculum contributes to our top national ranking. The Friends of Howard County Library supports the three pillars of HCLS's educational mission - Self-Directed Education, Research Assistance & Instruction, and Instructive & Enlightening Experiences through powerful advocacy and financial support.
http://www.hclibrary.org/index.php?page=554

P.S. 1

From the Columbia Association:

  The Teen Outreach Committee is extending its clothing drive. The deadline for drop-off to the village association buildings, Supreme Sports Club and Art Center is still Friday, Nov 30 — but YTC@TheBarn will be accepting donations through Friday, Dec 14. 

P.S. 2
Girls on the Run is sponsoring a 5K run with a sign up deadline of Nov. 28th.  To learn more about this great organization click here.