Giving Hearts Day falls on the second Thursday in February every year, and takes place on February 9 this year. Do you know that it has been 13 years since Giving Hearts Day was first observed? Giving Hearts Day is an opportunity to donate as much as possible to charity organizations and those in need. It is a great way to show compassion and help those that need our help.
History of Giving Hearts Day
In the 1960s, a group of doctors and community leaders came together to form a new hospital, and thus the Dakota Medical Foundation(D.M.F.) was born. In 1962, Dakota Hospital was founded with an initial budget of $1.8 million. The hospital had 76 beds and 11 doctors. Some of the treatments available in Dakota Hospital were kidney dialysis, joint replacement, open-heart surgery, and other treatments and facilities. The patient care provided at the hospital and the supportive, dedicated physicians were also some of the reasons behind Dakota Hospital being one of the most well-established medical centers ever.In the 1990s, the Dakota Medical Foundation sold half of the hospital to a for-profit organization in Houston. After a few years, the other half was also sold to the same organization. In the early 2000s, charitable establishments were formed within the foundation. In 2005, the Dakota Medical Foundation founded Impact Foundation. The purpose of building this foundation was to provide a way to fund businesses and give loans to charity.In 2008, the Dakota Medical Foundation and Impact Foundation created Giving Hearts Day, a flagship event to encourage people to give and donate as much as possible. Both foundations mobilized and secured more than $450,000 of area non-profits within 24 hours. Since then, Giving Hearts Day has been celebrated on the second Thursday of February every year as a day on which you donate to charitable organizations as much as possible and make a difference in the lives of millions.
Giving Hearts Day timeline
The Dakota Medical Foundation is formed.
Dakota Hospital expands and becomes a center for joint replacements.
The D.M.F. establishes Impact Foundation to help charity organizations.
The D.M.F. and the Impact Foundation create Giving Hearts Day to encourage people to donate to charity.
Giving Hearts Day FAQs
Why is the day called Giving Hearts Day?
Giving your heart is symbolic of giving love to someone. When you donate and help make a difference in someone’s life, you are actually sending them love and affection. Hence this day of giving was termed Giving Hearts Day.
Is there any specific organization I should donate to?
No. You can choose to either donate on the Giving Hearts Day website or any charitable organization you prefer. The ultimate purpose is to donate, help, and save lives.
What are some of the other initiatives taken by the D.M.F.?
The Dakota Medical Foundation has partnered with Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota to initiate a statewide wellness program. It has also launched a project named CassClayAlive which aims to promote healthier lifestyles and eating choices in the community, especially children.
How to Observe Giving Hearts Day
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Donate something
The whole purpose of Giving Hearts Day is to donate and help others as much as possible. Donate to any charitable organization you trust and help people in need. You can also visit the Giving Hearts Day website and donate online.
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Share it on social media
Let everyone know the importance of this day. Make a social media post telling everyone that you are actively taking part in Giving Hearts Day, and motivate them to do it as well. You can also mention your favorite charitable organization.
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Organize a Giving Hearts Day fundraiser
If you want to donate a substantial amount and want to make this day even more special, then you can organize a fundraiser in your community. Ask your neighbors and friends to donate to this noble cause and make a huge impact on the lives of people who need support.
5 Facts About The Dakota Medical Foundation That Will Blow Your Mind
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It had only 40 members
Initially, there were only 40 members working in the Dakota Medical Foundation.
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It saved lives using A.E.D.
In the early 2000s, D.M.F. saved about 30 lives annually using the Automated External Defibrillator (A.E.D.)
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It has helped nursing students
The D.M.F. has provided over $400,000 to help nursing students get into the tri-colleges.
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It has collaborated with A.S.F.F.
The D.M.F. has collaborated with the Alex Stern Family Foundation to provide development resources.
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It created Lend A Hand
Lend A Hand, a charitable organization, was created by the D.M.F. to generate resources and funds for families in medical crises.
Why Giving Hearts Day is Important
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It reminds us to give more
We often take for granted the good health and financial stability we have. It is only when misfortune strikes us or our loved ones, we appreciate the good things in life. This day provides an excellent opportunity to donate and make a difference in the lives of people who need help.
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It gives charitable organizations the recognition they deserve
Charitable trusts work day and night to help those who are in need. Yet they are not given the appreciation and recognition they deserve. This day provides us an opportunity to give credit and supports these noble organizations.
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It is an opportunity to learn more
This day provides an excellent opportunity to learn more about charitable organizations, how they operate, and how they aid people financially and medically. It makes us realize the importance of these organizations and also how crucial it is to donate.
Giving Hearts Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | February 10 | Thursday |
| 2023 | February 9 | Thursday |
| 2024 | February 8 | Thursday |
| 2025 | February 13 | Thursday |
| 2026 | February 12 | Thursday |
