As the warmth of Thanksgiving leftovers lingers in our homes, the spirit of giving takes center stage on the following Tuesday—the day aptly named “Giving Tuesday.” This global day of generosity, founded in 2012 by New York’s 92nd Street Y in partnership with the United Nations Foundation, has grown into a powerful movement inspiring hundreds of millions of people worldwide to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. This year, Giving Tuesday falls on November 28, providing a perfect opportunity for individuals and communities to come together and make a positive impact.
In the heart of Orange County, organizations like Homeless Intervention Services of Orange County (HIS-OC) stand as beacons of hope. For over 30 years, HIS-OC has been a guiding light, offering not just shelter but a comprehensive continuum of care aimed at achieving self-sufficiency for individuals and families. Their commitment to job training, therapy, case management, and education sets them apart, making every dollar donated a step towards transformative change. “Since 2020, we’ve created 4 new programs and have expanded into the local community centers to assist the unhoused and underprivileged neighborhoods in North Orange County,” said HIS-OC Executive Director, Christine Stellino. “In October 2023 we were awarded a capacity building grant to expand the CalAim Community Service Contract and most recently UC Irvine gifted us an ADU to assist in expanding our Transitional Aged Youth (TAY) Program.” said Stellino. “We are expecting expansion and big things to come by helping those in need in North Orange County.”
Where to donate: https://his-oc.org/donate/
Another force for good in Orange County is the Orange County Rescue Mission, founded in 1963. This faith-based organization goes beyond providing emergency services, offering life-transformation programs that address the root causes of homelessness. “In the early years of the Rescue Mission, homelessness was largely hidden in Orange County. As homelessness has exploded in the last 10-15 years, we have provided much more than a handout or emergency services, but a hand up out of homelessness,” said Kristi Nichols from Orange County Rescue Mission. “We provide housing and services that allow families to stay intact – single mother/father families and two-parent families, regardless of how many children.” Recently, they celebrated the opening of the Double R Ranch—a 33-acre property providing outdoor programs for men overcoming homelessness, a testament to their dedication to healing, breaking bad habits, and fostering character development. Nichols continued, “These programs are advantageous for the process of healing from trauma, breaking bad habits, and developing good character for men coming out of addiction and homelessness.”
Where to donate: https://www.rescuemission.org/givingtuesday/
Consider the impact of organizations like Autism Partnership Foundation (APF) as the Tuesday after Thanksgiving approaches. Celebrating its 15th year anniversary, APF stands as a global leader in raising professional standards for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) treatment. Recognizing the need for qualified individuals, APF has provided free Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) training to over 500,000 people since 2020. Their commitment extends to inclusivity, with plans to offer the training in multiple languages and with closed-captioning, reaching historically underserved communities worldwide. “Autism Partnership Foundation was founded on the passion and belief that every child with autism deserves the chance to live the happiest, most fulfilling life possible. We recognize the importance of family involvement and collaboration, work closely with families to provide ongoing support, and incorporate it in our training,” said Justin Leaf from Autism Partnership Foundation.
Where to donate: https://www.classy.org/campaign/giving-tuesday-2023/c527312
As the Tuesday after Thanksgiving approaches, organizations like Alzheimer’s Orange County, serving the community since 1982, remain steadfast resource centers for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Their success stories are not just measured in statistics but in the countless individuals they’ve supported through brain health education, care consultations, and community-based services. “Until a cure is found, our programs continue to help thousands prepare, plan and learn how to manage their journey as well as learn about how to protect and preserve their long-term cognitive health. Additionally, our two licensed adult day centers located in Garden Grove and Laguna Woods provide direct care that makes it easier for people to age at home and helps promote the health and wellness of each participant and their families,” said Aaron Gutierrez from Alzheimer’s Orange County. “Whether it’s a simple phone call from someone seeking answers on how to get their loved one to bathe, an educational class that helped a care partner learn new skills to better understand how to manage their spouse’s behavior changes, or helping an adult daughter with children enroll their mom with dementia in one of our Healthy Aging Centers so she can get a break, or any of other examples of how we deliver support, each one of them is (considered) a success,” said Gutierrez.
Where to donate: www.alzoc.org/donate
Age Well Senior Services, a pillar of support for Orange County’s seniors since 1975, has expanded its mission to address the diverse needs of the aging population. With a commitment to delivering 500,000 home-delivered meals annually, Age Well ensures that no senior goes hungry, fostering a sense of security and community. Beyond meals, their ten Senior Sites in Irvine and South Orange County serve as essential hubs, offering friendly visits and creating a reliable network that the community can depend on. The extraordinary dedication displayed during the COVID-19 pandemic, where they served over one million meals, exemplifies Age Well’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of seniors, making a lasting impact on the lives they touch. “Our seniors feel secure that they will have a hot meal. They will have a friendly visit and our community knows they can depend on us,” said Jaclyn Svensson from Age Well Senior Services.
Where to donate: https://agewellseniorservices.org/give/
The American Red Cross of Orange County, established in 1917, is a mainstay of compassion, preventing and alleviating human suffering during emergencies. Their impact is felt across the globe, but it’s the personal and life-changing stories of volunteers responding to local disasters that showcase the power of ordinary people performing extraordinary acts. At the heart of their mission lies the tireless efforts of volunteers, employees, board members, and community partners, fueled by generous donations from the public. This support empowers them to make a difference in thousands of lives in Orange County and beyond. “The Red Cross of Orange County is always seeking volunteers to help support local families affected by disasters, help out at blood drives and to deliver lifesaving blood to local hospitals, prepare our community through our outreach programs, provide support to service members and military families and so much more,” said Brianna Kelly from the American Red Cross of Orange County. Every day, the local Red Cross provides vital blood products to hospital patients in need, offers 24/7 emergency communications to service members and their families, and equips thousands of people with lifesaving skills training.
Where to donate: redcross.org/SoCal
For nearly four decades, Radiant Health Centers has been a steadfast ally, providing vital support to those living with HIV in Orange County. As a leading LGBTQ+ medical clinic, it offers a comprehensive range of essential services, fostering healthcare equity. Committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment, the clinic’s empathetic staff ensures inclusivity. With aspirations for Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) status, Radiant Health Centers aims to expand its impact, providing primary care, free HIV testing, family planning, hormone replacement therapy, and social services. The recent launch of the LGBTQ+ Youth and Mentorship Program showcases the organization’s dedication to addressing the diverse needs of LGBTQ+ transitional-age youth. “In addition to our medical care services, we offer comprehensive social services, including medical case management, full mental health services, nutrition support through our food pantry, and housing assistance, and transportation,” said Joe Alfano from Radiant Health Centers. “Volunteering is an easy way to get involved with Radiant Health Centers. We have a variety of volunteer opportunities, ranging from our food pantry to one of our many special events.”
Where to donate: https://donate.radianthealthcenters.org/campaign/year-end-campaign-2023/c523619
In the realm of healthcare equity, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society stands as a guiding light for those navigating the complex journey of living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Their commitment extends beyond access to high-quality healthcare, encompassing affordable medications, and health insurance. Understanding the pivotal role healthcare plays in the MS journey, the society focuses on early diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and lifestyle guidance tailored for individuals with MS. Their initiatives not only empower those with MS but also equip healthcare professionals through specialized training and networking programs, fostering a supportive and knowledgeable healthcare system. The society’s collaborative efforts with healthcare providers further amplify the quality of care and education available to MS patients, ensuring a comprehensive and compassionate approach to managing this challenging condition.
Where to donate: https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Chapters/CAS
Finally, Orange County United Way, celebrating its centennial in 2024, is dedicated to breaking barriers and improving lives for everyone in the community. Their key initiatives, from supporting students to ending homelessness, have touched the lives of over a million OC residents. The ways to get involved are diverse—volunteer, donate, or partner with them to make a meaningful impact. “Last year, we served 1,010,443 Orange County residents through direct services and programs, our funded partners network, and essential community outreach,” said Stephanie Kupanoff from Orange County United Way. “We also partner with local companies looking to increase their community impact and engage employees in exciting philanthropic activities,” continued Kupanoff. “We are constantly evolving based on the needs of our community, prepared to respond to current or emerging crises.”
Where to donate: UnitedWayOC.org/donate
As we approach Giving Tuesday, let’s remember that the true spirit of the day lies not just in the act of giving but in the connections forged, the lives transformed, and the communities strengthened. Each donation, no matter the size, contributes to a ripple effect of positive change, echoing the sentiment that generosity knows no bounds.