The Parsons City Commission issued a Proclamation Monday evening declaring Tuesday, Dec. 2, as “Giving Tuesday” in Parsons. Giving Tuesday is a global day of generosity celebrated on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. It is a time when people everywhere come together to give – whether it is time, donations or support – to strengthen communities and inspire kindness. The official proclamation encourages “all citizens to join together to give back to the community in any way that is personally meaningful.”
Spearheaded by its former Executive Director, Anne Allen, the Parsons Area Community Foundation hosted its first Giving Tuesday Match Day in 2016. This year, PACF will celebrate its tenth annual Giving Tuesday Match Day Event from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. at the LCC Cardinal Event Center, 1306 Main Street, in Parsons.
“Since its inception, more than $1.4 million has been donated at PACF Giving Tuesday Match Day events,” said Becky Dantic, Parsons Area Community Foundation Executive Director. “It is inspiring to witness the extreme generosity of our neighbors. The impact these gifts have on organizations providing needed resources in our community is truly profound.”
Last year’s Giving Tuesday event saw 622 gifts, resulting in $248,036.86 donated to 29 funds. This year, 34 non-profits will be represented at PACF’s match day event. These organizations will have tables set up at the LCC Cardinal Event Center on December 2. For a complete list of participating organizations, visit pacfgivingtuesday.com.
“We are really excited to offer a few additions to the match day event this year,” Dantic said. “Free flu shots will be offered from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Chris the Cardinal and Victor the Viking will be making an appearance at the event, and the day will wrap up with a visit from Santa from 4 to 6 p.m.”
Community members are invited to stop by the Cardinal Event Center on Giving Tuesday to learn about the nonprofit agencies serving our area. “This will be an inspiring day and a great opportunity to learn more about all the good happening in our communities,” Dantic said.
Online early bird giving is now open. Contributions can be made at pacfgivingtuesday.com, in person, by mail, or by curbside pickup. Cash, check and credit card donations will be accepted. All donations received during the 2025 Giving Tuesday event will be multiplied by a $40,000 match pool.
PACF is a local, multifaceted nonprofit that helps to direct the wishes of a charitable giver to an intended cause. PACF strives to be in tune with local community needs, to provide leadership on important community issues, and to be exemplary stewards of the resources entrusted to it.
To learn more about grant opportunities, giving opportunities, or the work PACF is doing in our communities, visit www. parsonsareacf.org.
