Today, July 15th, marks a special occasion that reminds us of one of humanity’s most beautiful qualities: our capacity for generosity. National Give Something Away Day, founded by Linda Eaton Hall-Fulcher in 2015, offers us an opportunity to share some of our bounties and make a meaningful difference in our communities.
The Heart Behind the Holiday
Linda Eaton Hall-Fulcher founded National Give Something Away Day in 2015 to encourage generosity in a variety of forms, and what started as a simple Facebook page has blossomed into a global movement. This self-proclaimed giver and philanthropist understood something profound: most of us have the benefit of having more than we need to live, and sharing that abundance can transform both giver and receiver.
Why Giving Matters More Than Ever
In our modern world, where accumulation often overshadows contribution, National Give Something Away Day serves as a refreshing reminder of what truly matters. Giving not only makes us feel good but it teaches gratitude, too. The act of giving creates a ripple effect that extends far beyond the initial gesture, strengthening communities and fostering connections between people.
The beauty of this holiday lies in its simplicity and accessibility. Whether it’s donating clothes, money, or even blood, there are many different ways to give back to those in need. The key is ensuring that whatever you choose to give away will make a positive impact on someone’s life.
Simple Ways to Celebrate Today
Clear Out the Clutter, Fill Someone’s Need
Start by looking around your home with fresh eyes. Check all the closets in your house… are there things there that you haven’t worn in years? Giving your useful clothing away gives someone with less means the opportunity to look sharp, maybe even at their job interview. That winter coat gathering dust could keep someone warm, and those books you’ve already read could spark joy in a new reader.
Spread Random Acts of Kindness
Sometimes the most meaningful gifts don’t come from our closets but from our hearts. Pay for the person behind you in line at the coffee shop. Buy a to-go meal and hand it to the homeless person outside. These small gestures can brighten someone’s entire day and cost very little.
Give Your Time and Skills
Whether we give financially or by offering our skills and services, we lift others up. Consider volunteering at a local food bank, animal shelter, or community center. Your time and expertise might be exactly what someone needs to overcome a challenge or learn a new skill.
Create Care Packages
Pack a small purse or backpack that you don’t want anymore — with things like socks, snacks, and toothbrushes and gift it to a homeless person. These thoughtful packages address immediate needs while showing that someone cares.
The Power of Words and Presence
Not all gifts are material. Our words can be a gift, too. Showing empathy, encouragement, and compassion to someone during a time of need may make us feel vulnerable, but it empowers those we offer it to as well. Sometimes a listening ear or words of encouragement can be more valuable than any physical item.
Making It a Community Effort
Organize your own giveaway by asking friends and family to donate items for a raffle or silent auction. This approach multiplies the impact of your generosity while bringing people together for a common cause. Consider partnering with local businesses or organizations to reach even more people in need.
The Ripple Effect of Generosity
Giving benefits us all, too. It improves our community and puts much-needed services and assistance within the reach of those who need it most. When we give, we’re not just helping individuals – we’re strengthening the fabric of our entire community.
Recent data shows that giving is on the rise. According to Giving USA, giving rose in all nine major categories in 2016, including religion, education, and environment and animals. This trend reflects a growing understanding that generosity is essential for a thriving society.
Starting Small, Thinking Big
One of the easiest and most rewarding ways to celebrate National Give Something Away Day is to spread kindness and positivity to everyone you meet. You don’t need to empty your bank account or donate your entire wardrobe. Even small acts of kindness can create meaningful change.
Remember, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure” doesn’t literally mean junk or trash, but items that can serve someone else better. That kitchen appliance you never use might be exactly what a new college student needs for their dorm room.
A Day to Remember Year-Round
While National Give Something Away Day occurs annually on July 15th, the spirit of generosity it celebrates shouldn’t be confined to a single day. Compassion is a virtue that needs nurturing, and regular acts of giving can become a transformative practice that enriches our lives and communities.
As we celebrate this special day, let’s remember that giving isn’t just about clearing out our excess possessions – it’s about recognizing our interconnections and choosing to be part of the solution to the challenges facing our communities. Whether you donate items to Goodwill, which supports “stable housing, supported employment and job training”, or simply offer a smile to a stranger, your generosity matters.
National Give Something Away Day reminds us that in a world that often feels divided, the simple act of giving can unite us in our shared humanity. So take a moment today to give something away – you might just discover that in giving, you receive something even more valuable in return.
What will you give away today? Share your acts of kindness and inspire others to join this beautiful tradition of generosity.