Discover Giving Tuesday Japan – Be Part of a Global Movement for Good

In a world where it’s easy to focus on what divides us, Giving Tuesday serves as a powerful reminder of what connects us all – the ability to give, share, and uplift each other. Whether it’s a simple act of kindness or a larger donation, generosity fuels change.

And now, with Giving Tuesday Japan, this global movement is inspiring people across Japan to make a difference in their own communities. Here’s everything you need to know about how you can be part of it!

Giving Tuesday History

The Giving Tuesday story began in 2012, sparked by the simple yet profound idea of creating a day dedicated to giving back. Founded in New York City at the 92nd Street Y in partnership with the United Nations Foundation, the movement was positioned to counterbalance the consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

What made Giving Tuesday special from the start was its inclusivity: it wasn’t just about donating money. It was about volunteering time, offering resources, sharing talents, and performing acts of kindness.

The message resonated across borders, and the movement rapidly expanded beyond the U.S. Today, over 100 countries participate in Giving Tuesday, each adapting it to their own culture, needs, and local communities. The global day of giving takes place each year on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, reminding us that even small actions can lead to meaningful change.

Giving Tuesday Mission

At its core, Giving Tuesday aims to inspire generosity worldwide. But its mission goes deeper than encouraging donations. It’s about creating a culture where giving is second nature – something we do regularly and joyfully, not just on special occasions.

The movement encourages individuals, businesses, schools, nonprofits, and entire communities to come together and celebrate the power of giving in all its forms.

It’s about breaking the boundaries of what generosity can look like. Whether you’re organizing a local food drive, mentoring someone, sharing your skills, or simply spreading kindness on social media, every action counts. Giving Tuesday transforms the narrative around giving, reminding us that everyone has something to offer.

Giving Tuesday Japan Launch

The spirit of giving is deeply woven into Japanese culture, with traditions like omotenashi (selfless hospitality) and giri (a sense of duty and obligation). Recognizing these values, Giving Tuesday Japan launched in 2023 to bring the global movement closer to home.

Its mission is to adapt the Giving Tuesday ethos to Japanese society, creating opportunities for people to give back in ways that resonate with local customs and contemporary challenges.

From supporting disaster relief efforts to promoting education, environmental sustainability, and social welfare, Giving Tuesday Japan provides a platform to showcase the diverse ways people in Japan are making a difference.

Since its inception, Giving Tuesday Japan has worked tirelessly to foster collaboration between nonprofits, businesses, and individuals, helping to build a stronger culture of giving nationwide.

Giving Tuesday Japan’s Mission, Goals, and Current Actions

Giving Tuesday Japan is more than just a day – it’s a movement with year-round goals designed to promote generosity as a lifestyle.

Mission:

  • To raise awareness about the value of giving within Japanese society.
  • To empower individuals and organizations to take action for social good.
  • To connect givers with causes, ensuring that acts of kindness reach those who need them most.

Goals:

  • Expand the culture of giving beyond one day, fostering consistent, year-round generosity.
  • Support nonprofit organizations in Japan by amplifying their voices, helping them gain visibility, and connecting with supporters.
  • Facilitate partnerships across sectors – including corporations, educational institutions, and local communities – to encourage innovative approaches to social impact.

Current Actions:

  • Hosting workshops and webinars on topics like fundraising, volunteer engagement, and social impact strategies.
  • Promoting inspiring stories of giving from across Japan to motivate others and showcase the diversity of charitable actions.
  • Partnering with businesses to create corporate social responsibility initiatives tied to Giving Tuesday.
  • Encouraging schools and universities to incorporate giving activities into their curricula and events, nurturing the next generation of changemakers.

Who Can Participate / How To Participate / Resources

One of the most beautiful aspects of Giving Tuesday Japan is that anyone can participate. No matter your age, background, or resources, there’s always a way to contribute.

Who Can Participate?

  • Individuals looking to give back, no matter how small the gesture.
  • Nonprofit organizations seeking to raise awareness or funds for their cause.
  • Corporations and businesses aiming to strengthen their social responsibility programs.
  • Schools and universities interested in involving students in acts of service.

How To Participate:

  1. Make a donation to a nonprofit organization or cause that speaks to you.
  2. Volunteer your time – whether it’s helping at a local shelter, mentoring, or assisting with a community project.
  3. Organize an event: from bake sales and charity runs to online fundraisers or educational workshops.
  4. Spread the word on social media. Share stories, inspire others, and use the hashtag #GivingTuesdayJP to join the global conversation.
  5. Share your own giving story: Encourage others by posting about your experience participating in Giving Tuesday.
  6. Buy Giving Tuesday Japan Merch! Visit: https://www.givingtuesday.jp/shopen 100% of proceeds are donated to partnering organizations and projects! When you support them, you’re supporting numerous charities all across Japan! Add them on LINE for a special coupon!

Resources:

The Giving Tuesday Japan website provides valuable free resources to help you get started. Whether you’re an individual planning a small activity or an organization launching a large campaign, you’ll find:

  • Printable toolkits with step-by-step guides.
  • Customizable templates for emails, social media, and posters.
  • Success stories and case studies from past Giving Tuesday events in Japan and abroad.

Access the resources here: https://www.givingtuesday.jp/resourcesen

Website and Social Media Information

Stay connected with Giving Tuesday Japan and be part of a vibrant community of changemakers:

Follow their social channels for updates, inspiring stories, and ideas on how you can get involved!

Contact Information / Call to Action

Interested in participating, partnering, or simply learning more about Giving Tuesday Japan? Feel free to reach out directly:

Email: info@givingtuesday.jp or visit www.givingtuesday.jp/contacten

Ready to Make a Difference?

No act of kindness is too small. Whether you’re donating, volunteering, or spreading the word, your contribution matters. Join the Giving Tuesday Japan movement today and help create a ripple effect of generosity that starts here and extends far beyond.

Visit the official website to get involved. Together, we can make giving a global tradition!