(November 2016 – Owego Pennysaver, By Joann R. Walter)
By Joann R. Walter
“Giving Tuesday,” Nov. 29, is a day dedicated to giving back, a national effort that works to increase awareness as well as raise funds for charities, with a common goal of building a stronger community. The entire 24-hour online fundraising challenge supports non-profit organizations, and in New York, the #NYGivesDay coincides with the national effort of #GivingTuesday.
Founded in 2012, the spotlight on the first Tuesday following Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Cyber Monday, known as #GivingTuesday, is a day to celebrate generosity and give to charities. #GivingTuesday promotes a message that the holiday season is more about giving than getting, and not all about shopping deals.
By giving to a charity registered with #GivingTuesday or #NYGivesDay, you can help strengthen your community as well as fulfill a sense of pride in yourself for helping others.
One local non-profit charity registered with #GivingTuesday is the Tioga County Senior Citizens Foundation (TCSCF). For more than 30 years, the TCSCF efforts have enhanced the quality of life for senior citizens living in Tioga County, NY.
Founded in 1982, TCSCF has been helping Tioga County senior citizens by awarding grants to agencies that provide support for the needs, interests and safety of the county’s senior population. According to J. Paul Cavataio, treasurer of the TCSCF Board since 1998, the foundation has awarded $1.9 million since its inception.
Grants from the TCSCF are made to organizations and agencies that provide direct services to senior citizens, such as food pantries, transportation, residential repairs, as well as numerous activities, clubs and other services. The TCSCF’s commitment to the community for over 30 years has been received by organizations such as the Tioga County Rural Ministry, Open Door Mission, Tioga Opportunities, Nichols Community Care Network, various libraries and countless others.
When you support non-profits on #GivingTuesday and #NYGivesDay, your contribution is tax deductible and 100 percent of your donation goes to your selected cause.
Numerous other local and regional organizations are registered with #GivingTuesday and #NYGivesDay, such as TwinTiers Honor Flight and the Owego Dog Owners Group, among others.
A complete list of organizations can be found online at www.givingtuesday.org or www.nygivesday.org