Local nonprofits encourage participation in Giving Tuesday

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — After Black Friday and Cyber Monday, people will have another chance to reach into their pockets, but instead to give for others for Giving Tuesday.

It's a day to encourage people to give money, volunteer and simply say thanks to nonprofits and charities.

There's an effort underway hoping to help Giving Tuesday become a household name during the holidays.

It was launched last year to encourage people to support nonprofits and charitable causes using the power of social media.

Several organizations in Charlotte have also partnered with the cause including Campus Pride.

It works to promote safe environments and support for LGBT college students across the country.

"It a really beautiful time to be able to reach out to our donors to find out why are you giving and how we create a stronger base how can we reach new donors," said Rebby Kern with Campus Pride.

The group Murder Victims' Families for Reconciliation is filling it's Facebook page with posts of gratitude for people and agencies who serve victims of crime and their families.

The YWCA teamed up with nearly a dozen local nonprofits to promote Giving Tuesday.

"We are asking people to go online and donate their time to the charity of their choice," said Ashley Brown with YWCA Central Carolinas. "The response has been phenomenal."

Alana Linn spent the last three days doing holiday shopping and Tuesday she went in her wallet again to make a donation at the YWCA.

"It's giving. You are giving something -- a donation, your time to an organization that means something to you," Linn said.

Last year, 50 million people worldwide spread the word about giving Tuesday on Twitter alone.

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For more information on Giving Tuesday, click here.

WSOC