The Robert H. Jackson Center, one of the participating locations in the upcoming Giving Tuesday. Submitted photo

Multiple organizations in the county will be participating in Giving Tuesday on Dec. 2. This is a day celebrated by groups across the nation that are looking to encourage people to consider a year-end donation. The participating organizations will be able to utilize any donations that they receive to continue operations and events, and give back to the community and its residents further.

Giving Tuesday is a nation-wide initiative that is sometimes referred to as National Day of Giving. It occurs each year on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, and was inspired by the black Friday and Cyber Monday events. Rather than receiving being the focus of Giving Tuesday though, it is focused around the idea of generosity and giving. It is a day that encourages people to donate, volunteer, fundraise, and assist their communities in any way that is possible. Due the community support and collaboration that results, a multitude of local organizations will be looking for participants this Giving Tuesday.

The first participant is the Robert H. Jackson Center. Jackson center President Kristen McMahon stated that this day marks an unofficial kick off to the final month for fundraising of the year for many groups, including the Jackson Center. With so many holidays such as Cyber Monday and Black Friday that go toward benefiting stores, this holiday recognizes the important work of non-profits and allocates them a special day of recognition, said McMahon. McMahon noted that since all of the Jackson Center events are free and open to the public, philanthropic events such as this are crucial to keeping the organization running. McMahon stated that this allows the Jackson Center to highlight all of the events and activities that they held throughout the year. This can range from the work of summer interns, students programs, and adult events as well.

“It is typically a very successful day for us,” said McMahon. “Probably the largest percentage of donations to the center come in between Thanksgiving and the end of the year. So for us, Giving Tuesday is also a critical day in helping us achieve our fundraising goals each year.”

The Chautauqua Lake Association will be continuing its participation as well. The CLA is an organization that performs various types of upkeep on the lake. This includes clearing nuisance weeds, condition monitoring, removing debris, and similar functions. The group takes this information that is collected and distributes it to various governmental agencies and supportive groups, with the hopes of continuously improving lake conditions or problems that may arise.

Not only does the CLA provide a wide-range of educational information through its website, but it also participates in a host of community events including conservation days, lake events, and service club presentations. Proceeds from this end-of-year fundraiser will allow the organization to expand projects and lake management efforts, as well as allow for the ability to provide more tools and resources to the community.

Heritage Ministries is also returning to participate again this year. Heritage is an organization that focuses on providing senior rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and various forms of assisted care for people. The group has been responsible for benefitting over 2,000 elderly individuals annually through their services. Much like the other organizations, Heritage heavily relies on philanthropic donations to continue operations. This is why the organization has once again chosen to participate in this event, with the hope of attracting more people with the ability to aid or contribute to the organization.

For more information on events or donating contact the organizations directly.