Giving Tuesday is a global generosity movement that takes place every year on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. It was created in 2012 to encourage people to give back to their communities and support the causes they care about. Over the years, it has become a powerful force for good, helping to raise millions of dollars for nonprofit organizations and inspiring countless acts of kindness and generosity.
The impact of Giving Tuesday can be felt by individuals, organizations, and communities alike. For individuals, it provides an opportunity to give back and make a positive difference in the world. For nonprofit organizations, it can be a game-changer, providing a much-needed boost in funding and visibility. And for communities, it can help to bring people together and foster a sense of solidarity and goodwill.
Wausa decided to join the generosity last November (2022) and held its first Giving Tuesday initiative. This local effort, organized by representatives of several community organizations, raised nearly $500 in just two single days for the Morgan family, whose daughter Aubrey suffered injuries from a severe car accident in 2021.
“I said ‘oh that’s amazing!’ However in my mind I was thinking more than just that short statement. It was more ‘oh that is SO great! It’s all appreciated more than anyone knows,’” shared Abbey Morgan, expressing gratitude for the community’s support.
In addition, a generous $100 donation was made to the local TeamMates Chapter, an organization that provides mentoring and support to Wausa youth.
Darren Vanness, the founder of the Wausa TeamMates Chapter, had this to say in response to the donation: “The Wausa TeamMates chapter has been fortunate to experience continued growth the past couple of years by adding more mentors. We also continue to grow a list of students wanting a mentor. The Giving Tuesday donation will help us with the increasing costs of mentoring our students.”
Alexa Cunningham, a TeamMates mentee, spoke about the impact of the organization, saying “The TeamMates program is the most beneficial program I have ever been a part of. I have gained the most special relationship I have ever had in my life through teammates. The TeamMates program helps students step out of their comfort zone and meet someone new and it most importantly provides kids with someone outside of their family that they can confide in and share special moments with.”
The Wausa Giving Tuesday initiative was a shining example of what can be accomplished when a community comes together to support those in need. It was a testament to the generosity and kindness of the people of Wausa, and a reminder of the importance of giving back and supporting one another.
On behalf of the Morgan family, the TeamMates Chapter, and the entire community of Wausa, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the Wausa Giving Tuesday initiative. Your generosity and kindness have made a real difference in the lives of those in need, and we are grateful for your support.
But our gratitude extends beyond this one initiative. We are thankful for all those who continue to make Wausa a thriving community, a place where people come together to support one another and make a positive difference in the world. Thank you for your kindness, your generosity, and your commitment to making our community a better place for all.
If you would like to be considered as a candidate for Wausa’s Giving Tuesday in 2023, please contact wausanebraska@gmail.com.