Giving Tuesday brings surge of support to St. Joseph nonprofits

MICHIANA -- After a long weekend of holiday shopping, Giving Tuesday offered Michiana residents a chance to shift their focus from buying to giving — and local nonprofits say the support made a meaningful impact.

The Humane Society of St. Joseph County participated in a fundraising campaign thus Giving Tuesday, helping pay for everything from dog treats to spay-and-neuter services. Executive Director Genny Brown said a generous donor helped boost participation.

“We did have a very generous donor who matched the first $6,375 worth of donations,” Brown said. “So if you gave $5 today, it actually was $10 and you doubled your impact.”

But with the holidays approaching, many people may not have the extra funds to give. Brown said financial donations aren’t the only way to support the Humane Society.

“Not everybody has the funds to give a little extra right now, which we totally understand,” she said. “So one way that’s easy, it’s free, is if you’re on social media, share a post.”

That message resonated across town with Downtown South Bend (DTSB), another nonprofit that relies heavily on community engagement. Executive Director Willow Wetherall said spreading positive news is one of the simplest and most effective ways to support their mission.

“I think one of the best ways that people can support Downtown South Bend, the place, is just by sharing positive news about it,” Wetherall said.

By Tuesday afternoon, DTSB had already reached half its fundraising goal. Wetherall noted that many don’t realize the organization is an independent nonprofit that produces dozens of free events each year, including First Fridays and Art Beat.

“There is never a dull moment,” she said.

As DTSB focuses on creating community-centered events, the Humane Society is giving back in its own way this season, offering free adoptions through the end of the year for anyone ready to welcome a new furry family member.

Both organizations saw strong support Tuesday: the Humane Society met its $15,000 fundraising goal, and Downtown South Bend surpassed $2,000 in donations.