There’s good reason that it’s not known as “The Season of Getting.”
From the smaller stage of helping workaday employees make their everyday ends meet to the broader perspective of keeping the nation’s economy on track at a steady hum, consumerism indeed has its undeniable values and virtues. However, even the most squinted and pessimistic eye can’t deny that the holiday season encompasses a softer and more global approach to giving of ourselves for the purpose of offering a hand to our friends and neighbors who are struggling and in a time of need.
That’s why in the height of the holiday shopping hysteria, Giving Tuesday plays a vital role in reminding us that the threads of kindness and compassion bind us all together in this complex tapestry of humanity. It’s also why businesses large and small play essential parts in the ensemble cast of making Giving Tuesday a success each year.
Since 2012, Giving Tuesday has encouraged people to engage in acts of good on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving through its mission of building a more just and generous world.
“Giving Tuesday strives to build a world in which the catalytic power of generosity is at the heart of the society we build together, unlocking dignity, opportunity and equity around the globe,” according to the organization’s website. “We believe that generosity leads to greater civic participation and other pro-social behaviors. … 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.”
At SaveOn, we’re proud that so many in our extended family of businesses choose to take part in the spirit of Giving Tuesday during the holidays, as well as throughout the year. These businesses serve as shining examples of compassionate commitment in the regions they serve as they strive to do their part to make their community’s better places to live, work and play.
With so many feeling isolated and alone this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, The UPS Store in Lake Orion, Michigan, is using its care package services to help families and loved ones stay connected while following social distancing guidelines.
As a designated essential business, The UPS Store has remained open during the pandemic. Care packaging is just one way the brand is helping customers get through this time as a resource of hope and outreach.
“Many of our customers are missing their families and friends, so sending a care package is a great way to be there for one another from a distance,” said franchise owner Neil Patel. “Our packing experts are trained in advanced packing techniques and can pack just about anything. We know how important it is for your package to arrive intact to help bring a little good cheer.”
Another proud member of the SaveOn family, MSP Plumbing, Heating and Air in St. Paul, Minnesota, has been committed to the comfort of its customers for more than a century. MSP takes great pride in being an active member of its community by supporting local charities and causes.
“We know that 2020 has been a tough year for all, and we believe everyone could use a little extra comfort. MSP would like to take the holiday season to show our commitment to our community by supporting people in need,” MSP said in a statement. “We are asking for your help by sharing instances of individuals, families or groups who may have had a rough year and could use a little extra happiness this holiday season.”
MSP is asking people to visit mspoffers.com/committed-to-our-community and nominate an individual or family that has had an especially challenging year and could use a little help. The MSP team selects a winner each week to be awarded and celebrated on the company’s website.
Ann Arbor, Michigan, favorite Wags to Wiskers Pet Supplies spreads its Giving Tuesday sentiment throughout the entire year to our four-legged friends by accepting year-round donations for local pet rescues and charities.
“Our community is our family and our priority at Wags to Wiskers Pet Supplies,” said owner and founder Dan Gilmore. “You can feel it in the way we treat our customers, both new and returning. You see it in the way we partner with local businesses and organizations. We are most grateful for all the support and consistency in our businesses during this most tumultuous year. We miss seeing everyone all the time, but we know things will be better soon, and we plan to be right here.”
These businesses, and many more just like them, reflect the importance SaveOn places on taking an active role in the community and giving back to the people and the causes that help define a region’s purpose. There are no small acts of giving. Consider supporting the local businesses that support you this Giving Tuesday.
