Remember Nebraska Athletes on Giving Tuesday
Giving Tuesday, a global day of generosity, is the perfect time to make a difference in the lives of others. Recognized annually on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, this day of giving provides a special opportunity to support the causes you care about.
This Giving Tuesday, consider donating to a cause that’s close to the hearts of Nebraskans: the Nebraska Greats Foundation. Our organization supports former Nebraska collegiate athletes who face medical and financial challenges once their days of competition are over.
We’ll tell you about the history of Giving Tuesday and the opportunity it offers to help deserving athletes who need us.
What is Giving Tuesday?
Giving Tuesday occurs on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving in the US. Many non-profits and charities see a noticeable spike in donations they receive on this day. It’s a global movement that celebrates radical generosity and encourages individuals, communities, and organizations to give back in whatever ways they can.
Whether through donating money, volunteering time, or simply showing kindness, Giving Tuesday reminds us that we all have the power to make a positive impact.
The History of Giving Tuesday
The 92nd Street Y, a cultural center in New York City, and the United Nations Foundation created Giving Tuesday in 2012. It began as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good for others.
Giving Tuesday offered a refreshing alternative to the consumerism mindset by serving as a dedicated day for generosity and giving back.
Over the years, Giving Tuesday has grown into a global phenomenon that’s observed in over 80 countries. It has evolved beyond monetary donations to include acts of kindness, volunteering, and community engagement.
Giving Tuesday Facts
Since its beginning, Giving Tuesday has inspired millions of people worldwide to donate billions of dollars to charitable causes. It creates awareness of generosity, reminding us that even small acts of kindness and charity can create a ripple effect of positive change in our communities.
Here are some facts about Giving Tuesday:
- Giving Tuesday is always the Tuesday after Thanksgiving.
- The Giving Tuesday heart logo symbolizes the collective power of generosity and compassion.
- The hashtag #GivingTuesday is used millions of times on social media each year.
- Many organizations see a significant increase in donations on Giving Tuesday.
- Giving Tuesday inspires people to give back to make a difference in the world.
- No matter how big or small, every act of giving makes a difference.
- On Giving Tuesday 2023, donors in the U.S. gave an estimated $3.1 billion, and the global impact was even greater.
Making a Bigger Impact With Matching Gifts
Wish there was a way you could make a larger contribution on Giving Tuesday? Many companies offer matching gift programs to help you do just that. These programs essentially double (or even triple) your donation to the causes you care about – it’s like getting free money for your favorite nonprofits.
Before you donate this year, ask if your employer has a matching gift program. Many companies have specific guidelines and deadlines, so it’s important to do your research beforehand. You can often find this information on your company’s intranet, HR portal, or by contacting your HR department.
By taking advantage of your employer’s matching gift program, you can make your Giving Tuesday donation go further.
The Nebraska Greats Foundation: Supporting Former Athletes
The Nebraska Greats Foundation was born out of tragedy and a deep desire to help.
Former Husker football stars Andra Franklin and David Humm both faced devastating illnesses and financial hardship in their later years. Franklin succumbed to heart disease in 2006, unable to afford even basic medical care, while Humm’s battle with multiple sclerosis left him needing round-the-clock attention he was unable to afford.
These heartbreaking situations exposed a critical gap in support for former athletes facing medical hardship.
Former Nebraska All-American Jerry Murtaugh took action inspired by the NFL Greats Foundation. He organized a fundraiser for Humm, which provided medical care for the remainder of his life.
However, Murtaugh was haunted by the missed opportunity to help Franklin, and it drove him to create a lasting solution to help former Nebraska athletes in need. He created the Nebraska Greats Foundation to help former letter-winning athletes from the state’s 16 four-year colleges and universities who face medical hardships and financial difficulties.
Today, the Nebraska Greats Foundation serves as a lifeline, providing much-needed assistance to ensure our Nebraska athletes receive the care and support they deserve.
Why Support the Nebraska Greats Foundation?
The Nebraska Greats Foundation embodies the spirit of Giving Tuesday through the support and resources they provide. By contributing to our cause, you can directly impact the lives of former athletes who have given so much to the state of Nebraska and its fans.
Your donation can help us provide the following:
- Financial assistance for medical expenses: Covers the costs of surgeries, treatments, and rehabilitation.
- Mental health support: Offers counseling and resources to address emotional well-being.
- Community outreach: Connects former athletes with resources and support networks.
How to Donate on Giving Tuesday
By donating on Giving Tuesday, you become part of a global movement of generosity while making a real difference in the lives of Nebraska’s athletic heroes. Supporting the Nebraska Greats Foundation is easy – here’s how you can contribute:
- Visit the Nebraska Greats Foundation Website: Go to our official website to find the Make a Donation page.
- Choose your donation method: Donate online using a credit card or GPay. (You may also send a check by mail.)
- Consider recurring donations: Make a lasting impact by setting up a recurring monthly donation.
- Spread the word: Encourage others to donate on Giving Tuesday by sharing our foundation’s mission on social media.
Even a small donation can make a significant difference in the lives of athletes in need of support from their fellow Cornhuskers. Every contribution helps the Nebraska Greats Foundation continue our vital work of supporting those who have brought so much pride to our state.
Missed Giving Tuesday?
If you missed Giving Tuesday, you can still participate in our Larry the Cable Guy end-of-year giving campaign, “Git-r-Done For Nebraska Greats!”
There are three easy ways to make a contribution:
- Text the word LARRY to 44834 to donate.
- (or) Scan the QR Code below.
- (or) Click on the link: onecau.se/_826661
Support the Nebraska Greats Foundation on Giving Tuesday
Former Nebraska college athletes who face challenges after their playing days are over can find vital support through the Nebraska Greats Foundation. We assist with medical expenses, rehabilitation, and other essential needs, making sure our athletes receive the care and support they deserve.
Giving Tuesday is a powerful reminder of our collective ability to create positive change. By supporting our work at the Nebraska Greats Foundation, you honor the legacy of Nebraska’s memory makers. Visit our website today to learn more and contribute. Together, we can make a difference!