‘Giving Tuesday’ Might Be Over, But The Chance to Give Locally Isn’t

This past week many Americans paused after the swirl of Black Friday and Cyber Monday to support Giving Tuesday — the global generosity movement that began in 2012 as a simple campaign to redirect holiday energy toward giving, volunteering, and community support. But just because the calendar has turned doesn’t mean the spirit of generosity has to end. There’s still time to make a difference by supporting United Way of Southwest Michigan, keeping your charitable dollars local!

Since 1943, United Way of Southwest Michigan has worked across Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties to build a community where everyone contributes, belongs and thrives. Through decades of partnerships with nonprofit agencies, great public organizations, and local businesses, we work to tackle pressing issues such as information resources, food insecurity, workforce development, youth opportunity, and more.

When you donate to United Way — no matter the amount — you’re doing more than writing a check. Even modest, regular contributions add up: they help fund dozens of vital programs across the region, offering everything from mental-health counseling and youth mentorship to food pantries and emergency financial assistance. At a time when many families are struggling to meet basic needs, these services make a measurable difference.

Supporting a local nonprofit like United Way of Southwest Michigan also strengthens the social fabric of our region. Local giving helps empower community networks, expand access to essential services, and increase the overall resilience of Southwest Michigan. And because these dollars stay here in our own counties, their impact is multiplied — benefitting neighbors, strengthening families, and building a healthier local economy.

Even though Giving Tuesday has passed, the need — and the opportunity to help — continues. You can still donate online at UWSM.org/GivingTuesday, text GiveOnTuesday to 41444, contribute through workplace campaigns, volunteer your time at UWSM.org/Volunteer, or simply help spread the word. Every action, big or small, moves Southwest Michigan closer to becoming a place where everyone has the chance to thrive.

For those looking for another way to keep their dollars local while still supporting United Way of Southwest Michigan, the Whirlpool Appliance Sale is now online! Happening now through December 12 at WhirlpoolApplianceSale.com, you can get brand-new appliances at significant discounts, with 100 percent of the proceeds benefiting United Way’s work. It’s a unique chance to upgrade a home appliance, secure a great deal, and support the community all at once. In recent years, the sale has generated substantial funding for UWSM programs while helping local families get the reliable appliances they need.

Generosity isn’t limited to one day on the calendar. Whether it’s a year-end gift, a few hours of volunteering, or purchasing a discounted appliance that supports local programs, giving back now will have an immediate and lasting impact on our community. Thanks for considering United Way of Southwest Michigan in your year-end giving.