In a sometimes alarmingly hash-tag driven world, we’re happy to support today’s.

#GivingTuesday, a global movement to drive much needed funds to appropriate charities, backs up its social media cache with genuine results. Launched in 2012, the movement didn’t really take root until the following year, when it raised $19 million. Those funds grew 63% the following year to $45.68 million, and 145% in 2015 to $117 million, according to GivingTuesday.com.

In addition to raising money, the #GivingTuesday movement encourages people to be kind. The idea is to share the warm fuzzies by posting an “unselfie” (a picture of you doing something selfless) and/or donating your time or money to a nonprofit in your community.

You become part of the community by posting about your efforts, using the hashtag #GivingTuesday.

Today, we’re encouraging each other and you, to enjoy yourself on this #GivingTuesday.  Here are some ways you can participate:

• Donate blood
• Visit a retirement center and chat with a resident there
• Support your favorite charity with a financial gift
• Help a neighbor get the yard in shape for winter
• Write a letter to a member of the military
• Buy coffee for a stranger
• Volunteer at a local animal shelter or food pantry
• Offer to drive an elderly friend on his/her errands
• Invite a lonely friend to dinner
• Write a thank-you note to someone who doesn’t expect it

Of course, we encourage you to check out your charities carefully before you donate. Many companies are offering matches in honor of #GivingTuesday, so make sure you take advantage of the opportunities to double the impact of your donation as well.

We hope you enjoy #GivingTuesday and join us in celebrating the spirit of kindness  throughout the holiday season.