#GivingTuesday has rapidly grown from small beginnings to become a worldwide movement driven by social media. Created as an antidote to the shopping frenzy that follows Thanksgiving in the United States with days known as “Black Friday” and “Cyber Monday”, it now has a dedicated following of its own, spreading from the US throughout the globe. In 2019, it will take place on December 3.

“GiveNow was formed in 2001 by social enterprise Our Community when few could afford a stand-alone online giving service. Since then we’ve gained the trust of thousands of community organisations and their donors, in the process helping to raise $100 million and become a leader in giving,” Ms Truong said.

“We’re proud to be the platform that’s been so reliable for small and large organisations alike, meeting our goal to ‘democratise giving’ and channel money to so many communities. #GivingTuesday pitches itself as an open, grassroots, giving movement, which fits perfectly with our values and model.”

The agreement gives GiveNow the chance to help more local causes join a fundraising opportunity that last year raised a staggering $380 million in the US. The event boasts the involvement of 50 countries worldwide.

“Australia is ready to be part of a global giving campaign that’s a powerful alternative to the pre-Christmas and end-of-year holiday spending spree,” Ms Truong said.

“The fact that we’ve been chosen as a major partner is great recognition of Our Community’s model as a social enterprise and certified B-Corporation and our work over two decades to provide practical technology and education that’s tailor-made for the community sector.”

GiveNow executive director Cathy Truong.