The week of Thanksgiving is slowly filling up with special spending days.
The gratitude and family gatherings of Thanksgiving weekend have evolved over the years to become the shopping season in the United States. While Black Friday and Cyber Monday dominate the headlines, Giving Tuesday has emerged as a unique and heartwarming aspect of this consumer-driven weekend.
The roots of Thanksgiving weekend spending can be traced back to the early 20th century when retailers began promoting the Friday after Thanksgiving as the start of the Christmas shopping season. The term "Black Friday" originated in the 1960s, reflecting the notion that retailers moved from being in the red (operating at a loss) to being in the black (profitable) due to the surge in holiday sales.
In recent decades, Black Friday has become synonymous with early morning store openings, long lines, and deep discounts. Consumers eagerly anticipate this day to snag deals on everything from electronics to clothing. As online shopping gained popularity, Cyber Monday emerged, offering digital deals and discounts, further extending the shopping frenzy.
Amidst this consumer-driven spending spree, Giving Tuesday was born. The movement aims to counterbalance the commercialization of the holiday season by encouraging people to give back. Falling on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving (today!), Giving Tuesday serves as a day of charitable contributions, volunteering, and acts of kindness.
Each year in Michigan, nonprofit organizations must apply to officially participate in the day. Out of all eligible Michigan organizations, only 62 are chosen each year. This is the second year in a row Rayola has been accepted as a participating charity!
Last year Rayola raised a little less than $2,000 on Giving Tuesday. This year, our goal is double: $4,000.
Keri Withers, president of Rayola, encourages everyone to give to a charity of their choice this year, "Giving Tuesday is a wonderful way for communities to come together and collectively give to many worthy organizations. Any organization that provides for the needs of children is always on the top of my list."
Rayola strives to bring comfort to children in need by working with many volunteers to make beautiful quilts/pillowcases and purchase supplies that they will need and can call their own.
All Giving Tuesday donations will go to continue the mission of Rayola. We remain a volunteer organization.
The history of Thanksgiving weekend spending, with the inclusion of Giving Tuesday, reflects the evolving values of society. While the allure of discounts and online shopping remains strong, there is a growing recognition of the importance of giving back. Giving Tuesday reminds us that the holiday season is not just about material accumulation but also about compassion, empathy, and making a positive impact in the lives of others.
This day serves as a powerful reminder that amidst the shopping frenzy, there is a significant opportunity to contribute to the well-being of others. As we navigate the holiday season, the history of Thanksgiving weekend spending reminds us that generosity and gratitude are essential elements of the true spirit of this time of year.
Happy Holidays!
