Giant land art fresco by artist Saype in Istanbul, Türkiye

© Chris McGrath/Getty Image

A day to lend a hand. Giving Tuesday

As we get caught up in the hustle and bustle of gift shopping and festive decorations, it's good to remember the true spirit of times like these: generosity and kindness. That's where Giving Tuesday comes in. This annual holiday on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving was created by the United Nations Foundation and New York's 92nd Street Y—a cultural organization and community center—in 2012. Their vision was to make a difference by providing joy to everyone through acts of charity. Generosity is something we can all practice, whether by volunteering at a non-profit organization, shelter or food bank, donating to a charity, or simply giving a voice to people in need in your community. So, let's jump on board with the millions of kind souls, shake hands, and share warm wishes far and wide!