December is the Month of Giving and it revolves around people making a difference in society by helping others. Do you have some extra clothes or food you want to give away? Use this month to ensure your hand-me-downs reach those in need! You can also take part by buying a gift for someone whilst giving back to charity in the process, check out our gift guide to see how.
History of Month of Giving
December is a month that is recognized for its holy observances such as Hanukkah and Christmas. In Christian tradition, it is the time that marks the birth of Jesus Christ and revolves around the concept of giving and spreading joy. The concept of giving gifts was formed around the 15th century as Christmas was seen as a holiday that focused on friends and family. Over the years, the month of Christmas has become a universal time for giving and also serves as a reminder of the history of Christmas. According to the historic narrative, Jesus who himself is considered God’s gift to mankind, received the gifts of frankincense, gold, and myrrh when he was born.This concept furthermore evolved into a yearly visit from Santa Claus — the magical individual who would bring gifts in December to those who were good throughout the year. Thus, every year during December, people began to perform good deeds to earn a clean record. After all, no one wants to be labeled as ‘bad’ by Santa! The good deeds performed by people near Christmas time include charity donations and helping the poor since Jesus is known for the aid he often offered to those around him. This is why, over the years, December has become a month where people continue to observe the Christmas traditions and spread happiness during the holiday time. Numerous Americans also hold on to their donations until December. This is why many nonprofits raise over 50% of their entire funding in the last month of the year.
Month of Giving timeline
Mandatory tax is used by Hebrews to benefit the poor.
The Charitable Uses Act is introduced to encourage charitable trusts in Britain.
Harvard University holds the first recorded charity drive in America.
The Revenue Act exempting charities from paying taxes is passed.
Charity donations in the U.S. rise to $335.17 billion.
Month of Giving FAQs
What is the season of giving?
December is the season of giving and is the month where the most fundraising occurs.
What is National Day of Giving?
On National Day of Giving or Giving Tuesday, it is better to give than to receive without any expectations
What is the value of giving?
Giving makes you happy and also gives you the power to spread that happiness.
How to Observe Month of Giving
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Host a charity event of your own
Organize a charity event of your own and donate the amount earned. The event could be a car wash, a dog show, a cooking competition — anything that is fun and likely to attract attention.
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Volunteer to teach children the importance of charity
Reach out to a school or a daycare center and volunteer to teach children the importance of charity. You will have to create interesting activities for the children so they retain the lessons you teach them.
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Donate some clothes and books
Spread the word and ask everyone in your area to donate clothes and books that are of no use to them anymore. Collect these items and take them to the nearest charity center.
5 Interesting Facts About Charity
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Greatest nation for a reason
According to the World Giving Index, the U.S. is the most charitable nation in the world.
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This further proves it
In the U.S., 72% of people have helped strangers.
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China ranks quite low
China ranks number 126 in the World Giving Index — making it one of the least charitable countries.
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The month for giving
31% of donations are given in December.
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Charities in the U.S.
There are over 1.54 million charitable organizations in the U.S.
Why Month of Giving is Important
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You can change lives
Based on the need of the person you are giving to, you could actually save someone's life, be sending a child to school, or providing food and shelter to a family.
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Giving will make you happy
Donating to charities and helping others has a therapeutic effect and can make you happy. It's a positive cycle that leads to the betterment of society.
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You can help reduce poverty
Your donations can help to reduce poverty if it's improving the living conditions of even a single family. Be a part of the change and donate as much as you can!
Month of Giving dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | December 1 | Thursday |
| 2023 | December 1 | Friday |
| 2024 | December 1 | Sunday |
| 2025 | December 1 | Monday |
| 2026 | December 1 | Tuesday |
