Giving Tuesday encourages all to give generously

Nov. 29—As the holiday season gets into full swing, an annual day aims to remind people across the world to donate their time and money to their community.

Giving Tuesday, started in 2012, is held annually on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving. The day has become a global movement, encouraging people to do anything they can to help others, even something as simple as making someone smile.

"Every act of generosity counts, and everyone has something to give," reads the organization's website.

Giving Tuesday benefits several nonprofits each year in Aiken, including the United Way of Aiken County. Sharon Rodgers, the organization's president, said it's an important day.

"In the middle of the holiday season and the focus on gift-giving, it's always good to remember those who are not as blessed in our (community)," Rodgers said. (There's) a focus on giving back to our community and making sure that everyone in our community has an opportunity to have not only a good holiday, but to have a good life."

The United Way of Aiken County works with a family of nonprofit partners to help improve the community. Rodgers praised the people of Aiken for their contributions, particularly over the last few "difficult" years.

"The United Way doesn't exist without folks in our community supporting us," Rodgers said. "We are our volunteers, our donors, our contributors, our partner agencies. Without the generosity of this community, none of that would exist."

The day also provides a nice finale on the United Way's fundraising for the year and "helps it end very strong," according to Rodgers.

"It's always good to know that our community never ever lets you down," Rodgers said. "They're always there, they're always supportive and they're always extremely generous."