This Thanksgiving, we thank our community for its continued support of the Choose Indie Local movement by choosing products and services from Indie Locals (independent and locally owned businesses), investing their dollars and time locally, and advocating for policies that level the playing field. These choices ripple out, creating more income, wealth, and jobs in our community long after we finish our Thanksgiving leftovers.

The Shop Indie Local Holiday Season, part of the Choose Indie Local movement, is here and calls for action that extends well beyond shopping locally. Our campaign also encourages you to give back to local nonprofits, neighbors, and the initiatives you care about. While every act of generosity counts, the generosity multiplies when we give where we live.

GivingTuesday

The generosity will overflow on GivingTuesday, the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving, on December 2.

“The idea behind GivingTuesday was to set aside a single day to counter consumerism by giving back,” shared organizers. “GivingTuesday was created in 2012 as a simple idea: A day that encourages people to do good. Over 13 years, this idea has grown into a global movement that inspires millions of people to donate, volunteer, and spread awareness. Whether it’s making someone smile, helping a neighbor or stranger out, showing up for an issue or people we care about, or giving some of what we have to those who need our help, every act of generosity counts, and everyone has something to give.” 

Not sure how to get involved? You could donate an hour of your skills to a local organization or a neighbor in need. Think about what you’re good at and offer a bit of your time. Or check out more inspiration.

One nonprofit, Lasagna Love, shared its recipe for cultivating kindness and community on GivingTuesday: Kindness is the base. Add a dash of simplicity and welcoming—mix in relationship-building, and a healthy dose of humor. 

“Simple actions, like simple ingredients, can spark something brighter than you ever imagined,” Andria Larson, Executive Director of Lasagna Love. “Thank a local nonprofit with a quick note or social post (don’t forget to tag them!). Check in on someone you haven’t heard from and let them know you’re thinking of them. Look someone in the eyes and smile—a small gesture that says, I see you. Hold the door and say hello, compliment someone’s shoes, or leave a note admiring a neighbor’s decorations.” 

Your generosity gives back to our community, but also to you!  Research shows that the joy of giving remains bright, while the joy of getting fades quickly.

Leading the Way on GivingTuesday

Monadnock United Way will launch a $15,000 challenge grant from John and Jean Hoffman and Guyer & Son Roofing.  For every dollar donated, the challenge grant will match it up to $30,000. Stay tuned!

“Behind every donation is a story—a child learning in a safe environment, a family rebuilding stability, a neighbor who knows they’re not alone,” shared Monadnock United Way staff. “Your gift isn’t just a donation. It’s dignity. It’s hope. It’s local impact that lasts. Join us on December 2 and be part of something meaningful.”

Learn more about GivingTuesday in the Monadnock Region at tlcmonadnock.com/givingtuesday.

Together, we're generating ripples that create new jobs, charitable contributions, and community prosperity—what a gift!  Thank you again for supporting the Choose Indie Local movement.