The days immediately following Thanksgiving are some of the busiest of the year in terms of monetary transactions.

On Black Friday, shoppers spent an estimated $9.8 billion this year. Small Business Saturday was expected to draw more than $17 billion in sales nationwide, and then came Cyber Monday … which is extended by most retailers to a full week of sales and promotions.

Among this consumption-heavy holiday season comes Giving Tuesday, which was celebration nationwide on Nov. 28. The national event encourages participants to actively seek out causes to support, spending a portion of their holiday dollars on “giving” instead of “buying.”

Created in 2012, Giving Tuesday has turned into a global movement that encourages people to do good, whether by volunteering their time and skills or by giving to their favorite charity. The event reimagines a world built on shared humanity and generosity.

Some people show their generosity by helping a neighbor rake their leaves or make home repairs, cleaning or decorating at their church or by giving to various causes. Every act of generosity counts.

And while Giving Tuesday is official past, we challenge you to consider making this holiday season a season of giving. We have so many worthy and needy organizations right here in Vicksburg and Warren County who could use your help – from churches to arts group to the Salvation Army to local animal shelters.

We all have talents and time to give to others, and to improving our community. We hope you’ll share the spirit of Giving Tuesday throughout the season right here at home.