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Published November 29, 2022

giving tuesday 2022 logo

When the holiday season gets underway, many of us begin focusing on family, friends, and festivities. But the holiday spirit is about much more than bright lights and big meals. It’s about caring for our neighbors and engaging in the “radical generosity” that propels us all toward a brighter future.

There’s no better onramp for that than Giving Tuesday, a global movement celebrated after every Thanksgiving to advance the common good. At Rutgers, Giving Tuesday is an opportunity to strengthen our Beloved Community and make a positive difference in the lives of others—whether that happens by giving financially or by donating time, energy, and expertise.

This year on November 29, Rutgers is partnering with organizations that are committed to service, active citizenship, and the flourishing of diversity and inclusion. All have a local presence in and around our university community, connecting directly with Rutgers students. We invite you to learn more about these amazing organizations and show your support for them!

Braven: Putting Education to Work

Did you know that only 25 percent of low-income or first-generation college students graduate and find robust employment? At the same time, local companies struggle to hire and retain local, diverse talent. Braven seeks to close this talent gap by equipping underrepresented young people with the skills, networks, and experiences they need to succeed professionally. Supporting or volunteering with Braven is a great way to pay it forward, gain leadership experience, and build strong relationships with mentees.

Embrace Kids: A Marathon Sprint for Families

emrace logoEmbrace Kids Foundation exists to lighten the burden, maintain normalcy, and improve quality of life for families in New Jersey and the New York City metropolitan area whose children are facing cancer, sickle cell, and other serious health challenges. The Rutgers University Dance Marathon is a student-run, year-long philanthropy project directly benefiting Embrace Kids Foundation. Over 2,000 Rutgers students dedicate countless hours to raising money, organizing projects, and volunteering at events that culminate in a spectacular dance marathon.

Rutgers Hillel: Home Away from Home

rutgers hillel logoRutgers Hillel is a thriving, dynamic, diverse Jewish community dedicated to exploring and celebrating Judaism and everything it means to be Jewish. There are no membership fees and students are encouraged to attend any of Hillel’s events and activities, all of which are supported by donations from parents, alumni, and the Jewish community. Whether it’s coming together for Shabbat, making a journey of discovery and delight to Israel, or just hanging out, a Hillel gathering welcomes all with warmth and inclusion.

Women of the Dream: Preparing Girls for Power

Want to give back to girls in underserved areas? Women of the Dream provides programs and services to young women ages 12-18 that prepare them for personal, professional, and economic success. Partnering with local schools, this organization offers important services in places of learning during school hours. In addition to financial support, Women of the Dream seeks facilitators for group services, presenters at its annual STEM conference, chaperones for trips and events, and mentors for young women in college.

On November 29, take a moment to give to or get involved with any of these vital organizations. Let’s make Giving Tuesday 2022 at Rutgers the best one ever!