Once again the Giving Challenge, presented by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County with giving strengthened by The Patterson Foundation, is upon us. Since 2012, this 24-hour day of local generosity has inspired the community and generated more than $59 million in unrestricted donations for 700+ area nonprofits. HSSC has participated in every Giving Challenge since its inception, with each year's proceeds being used for critical needs in our no-kill shelter. From purchasing a new transport van in 2015 to helping us weather the first wave of COVID in 2020, the Giving Challenge has been very kind to HSSC over the years.
The Community Foundation of Sarasota County's tagline BE THE ONE trumpets the idea that every person has the potential to be a philanthropist. Even a modest $25 contribution--the minimum gift amount for the Giving Challenge--can make a difference. We wholeheartedly agree. At HSSC, we are rich in individual success stories. Each animal saved and adopted goes on to be an integral part of someone's life. To the world, it's just one animal. But to one person, that animal is the world. Our campaign this year focuses on the "life lessons" animals teach us.
Participating in the Giving Challenge is easy. Beginning at noon on Tuesday, April 26, head to the Giving Challenge website. From there, you can search from 700+ participating organizations and make a donation of at least $25 to as many nonprofits as your heart desires. You can search by name, cause, or location. We hope, of course, that you will add HSSC to your giving basket. Here's the direct link to our donation page. Finish your donations by noon on Wednesday, April 27, which is when the Giving Challenge ends. Oh, and did we mention all gifts will be doubled? The wonderful folks at The Patterson Foundation will provide a 1:1 match for all unique donations $25-$100 per donor, per organization. All donations made during the Giving Challenge are unrestricted gifts and all gifts are 100% tax-deductible. See the Giving Challenge page for answers to FAQs.
We are so thankful for our community and their unwavering support of animals and the Humane Society of Sarasota County. We look forward to another incredible day of lifesaving generosity. Thank you and BE THE ONE!