What Is GivingTuesday? 
#GivingTuesday is a global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of dollars in donations to nonprofit organizations in one day – the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. According to the official organization, GivingTuesday was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good. It’s now an independent nonprofit, but the movement is intended to be used as a platform for any and all nonprofit organizations who wish to participate.  

Back Story 
After realizing how popular Black Friday and its marketing campaigns had become, in 2005, the National Retail Federation introduced Cyber Monday, though its popularity has only skyrocketed in recent years. Side note - Readers Digest has an interesting read on Cyber Monday. 

Years later, it makes sense that after a long weekend of massive spending and consumption, a day of encouraging people to give back could really work; and it has. From 2012 to 2020, #givingtuesday campaigns have brought in around $1.9 billion dollars in donated funds – those funds used for positive impact that can’t possibly be calculated. Nonprofit organizations around the globe put together email, social marketing, and website campaigns to raise awareness for their cause, in hopes of attracting donations. It’s a great platform to pitch new ideas and reach new audiences with the difference these organizations are making in the lives of people, animals, and more.  

Our Mission 
America’s VetDogs will be participating in GivingTuesday to raise money for our passion – providing service dogs at no cost to active-duty military, veterans, and first responders with disabilities. We have been doing this successfully for over 20 years and have received a Candid GuideStar Platinum rating.  

Here is what some of our graduates have to say about the difference their service dog is making:  
“The connection I have with Mikey is unconditional. I don’t need to perform a certain way, and I don’t have anxiety about what he’ll think of me. To Mikey, I’m enough. Mikey has also helped me focus when in public crowds. Our interactions require that I stay in tune with him. The tangible and intangible benefits of an AVD service dog are near infinite, and words can’t capture it all.” - Chad 

“I’m back in the world again. My life is infinitely better.” - Melanie 

“Since I got Trooper, people don’t even notice my injury; everyone is just focused on the adorable dog. It’s amazing to have a friend go with me everywhere. Someone who doesn’t try to avoid me or pity me or judge me.” - Kenneth 

Ways To Give
Giving to America’s VetDogs means helping those who have served our country honorably live with dignity and independence. Giving doesn't always have to be monetary. We have several ways to give, including donating items needed for our puppies in training and volunteering with us. One of our most immediate volunteer needs is for puppy raisers. Click here to learn more about joining our puppy raising team in your area! To learn more about America's VetDogs, visit us here. To participate in GivingTuesday, click here.