Giving Tuesday

It is hard to imagine that Thanksgiving 2017 is just behind us, along with Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday. I’m starting to see a pattern here: a shift from a pause for gratitude to full blown shopping mode! But, wait—today is Giving Tuesday.

What is your passion for giving? For me, the support of Christian radio has always been a priority. Our local Christian radio was always on in our home when my girls were growing up. We knew the owners and made friends with other listeners. In small town Delaware, it served as extended family.

Our family did a lot of volunteer work. It made some of our very best memories! One highlight every summer was a camping and concert event called LambJam. Sponsored by the station, thousands would attend over a three-day period.

My older daughter Jessica helped head up Artist Transportation. This involved airport runs for some of the hottest Christian singers of the day. Once they arrived, Jess helped ensure that they were where they needed to be throughout their visit. As her mom, I received numerous compliments each year for her great personality and maturity in handling their affairs. Jessica was about 13-16 years old at the time.

Opportunities are all around for young people to “give back.” Sometimes what Jess was involved in was front and center, like LambJam. But other times, it was hidden from view. One such time was seeing her thoughtfully put generous Thanksgiving food boxes together in a nonprofit’s back room. There were no compliments from famous singers there. Instead, she simply knew the need of strangers and was lovingly meeting it.

What is your opportunity for giving this holiday season? Wherever you are, whatever your age, there is surely a need for you.