Giving Tuesday 2025: Record $3.6 Billion Raised for Charities

UPDATE: Today, December 2, 2025, marks the annual celebration of Giving Tuesday, an international day dedicated to charitable contributions. This year, a record-breaking $3.6 billion has been raised for nonprofits across the globe, showcasing the growing impact of this movement.

Originally launched in 2012 by the 92nd Street Y and the United Nations Foundation, Giving Tuesday was designed as a counterpoint to the consumerism following Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The aim was to inspire people to focus on giving back after a weekend of shopping frenzy.

This initiative has gained momentum, with participation skyrocketing to 34 million people in the U.S. alone this year. Asha Curran, CEO of Giving Tuesday, emphasized, “Giving Tuesday exists in over 80 countries, showcasing a universal desire to give back.”

The momentum of this grassroots movement is evident. In its inaugural year, just $10 million was raised. By 2022, that figure had surged to a staggering $3.1 billion, and this year’s donations have exceeded all expectations.

Despite the impressive totals, Giving Tuesday contributes only a small fraction of the total charitable donations in the U.S. For context, Americans donated $592.5 billion to charity in 2024. However, the significance of Giving Tuesday lies not just in the money raised but in its role in fostering a culture of generosity and community involvement.

The need for such a day has never been more crucial, as many grapple with the pressures of holiday consumerism. Research has shown a strong correlation between gratitude and generosity, making the period following Thanksgiving an ideal time for reflection and giving.

“Donating money is common, but it’s only one way to participate,” noted Curran. Many engage through volunteering, sharing information about charitable organizations, and directly contributing to their communities. This diversity of involvement highlights a broader understanding of philanthropy.

With the rise of Giving Tuesday, nonprofits around the world are equipped with resources and branding strategies to maximize their outreach. The original concept was made intentionally open-source, allowing any organization to utilize the hashtag and participate in this global movement.

Looking ahead, the challenge remains for charities to secure consistent support beyond a single day of giving. While Giving Tuesday raises awareness and initiates conversations about philanthropy, ongoing support is essential for nonprofits to thrive.

As the day unfolds, millions of individuals are encouraged to consider how they can contribute. Whether through direct donations or community service, the spirit of Giving Tuesday serves as a powerful reminder of our collective ability to enact change.

Watch for updates throughout the day as participation continues to grow. Join the movement and share your contributions using #GivingTuesday to inspire others to do the same.