MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – Today is Giving Tuesday, a global generosity movement that encourages giving in any way you can. Tuesday’s outreach at Jamrich Hall on Northern Michigan University’s campus helped establish relationships and build the mindset of giving of oneself.
Grow and Lead Community and Youth Development hosted this informational program at NMU. The goal was to bring awareness to the countless opportunities available to give back. Taylor Olson-Brutto, Outreach Coordinator for Grow and Lead, says giving means different things to different people, but it all boils down to thinking of others.
“We are celebrating our local campaign, which is Give 906 we support and help all the nonprofits across the up through our local campaign called Give 906,” said Olson-Brutto
Olson Brutto says the people of the Upper Peninsula are very generous.
“Here in the UP. We are a generous people and I think we’re just today focusing on that and helping people to know like, hey, just take some time, after the holiday to give,” said Olson-Brutto.
The information tables were staffed by various non-profits who explained all the ways one can give. From sharing your money, your time, or just your smile, the main goal was to encourage people to spread the joy of giving.
“Our Gen Z year is the ones who are in school and just coming into the workforce. Man, they are on fire for generosity,” said Olson-Brutto.
Nic Conroy from Upaws was on hand to bring awareness to the many ways a person can give back while helping animals
“So UPAWS is looking to fundraise for Giving Tuesday. So, using this day of generosity to earn money for the shelter, to connect with the community, to see if people are interested in volunteering and just spending their time at the shelter with us,” said Conroy.
Olson-Brutto says the smallest acts of kindness are often as important as cash, and it’s working. UPAWS reached its fundraising goal by midday.
