As November arrives, our calendars begin filling with holiday gatherings, family traditions and preparations for another busy season. Thanksgiving reminds us of the many blessings in our lives, but it also provides an opportunity to consider how we can share those blessings with others. After all, one of the greatest ways to express gratitude is by making a difference in someone else’s life.
Have you ever considered how one small act of kindness can influence an entire community? Much like a pebble dropped into a pond, generosity creates ripples that extend far beyond the original act. A scholarship helps a student pursue higher education. A food pantry provides meals for a struggling family. A local nonprofit helps someone overcome barriers and become more self-sufficient. These are just a few examples of how generosity strengthens the communities we call home.
At the Golden Belt Community Foundation, we have the privilege of witnessing these ripples every day. During November, we invite you to help create a wave of generosity through our annual Giving Tuesday campaign.
Giving Tuesday is a worldwide movement encouraging generosity and charitable giving. While the official celebration is Dec. 1 this year, the foundation offers an opportunity to participate throughout November. This year, more than 130 charitable organizations serving Barton, Pawnee, Rush, Stafford and Edwards counties are participating in our local campaign.
One of the greatest aspects of Giving Tuesday is the opportunity to support causes that matter most to you. Whether your passion involves education, health care, youth development, animal welfare or family assistance, there is likely an organization working to make a difference in that area.
Last year, our communities demonstrated the incredible power of collective generosity by contributing more than $970,000 through Giving Tuesday! Those dollars represent more than financial gifts. They represent opportunities for nonprofits to expand services, address community needs and continue their important missions. Whether your contribution is $10, $100 or $1,000, every gift helps create a wave of positive change.
Making a difference is simple. Visit goldenbeltcf.org to donate online or mail your contribution to Golden Belt Community Foundation, P.O. Box 1911, Great Bend, KS 67530.
As we gather with family and friends this Thanksgiving, I encourage you to reflect on the individuals and organizations that have positively influenced your life. Chances are, someone’s generosity helped make those experiences possible. Now we have an opportunity to do the same for someone else.
Our rural communities may not have the resources of larger cities, but we certainly have the heart, determination and generosity to accomplish extraordinary things.
This November, be the pebble that starts the next ripple. Your generosity today could become the wave of opportunity that strengthens our communities for generations to come.
Remember, you don’t have to change the entire world to make a difference. Sometimes, changing someone’s world is more than enough.
Jason Murray is the executive director of the Golden Belt Community Foundation.
