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You know the fad of the fad of taking "selfies," photos of yourself that people share on social media. Founded last year by Henry Timms, interim director at New York's 92nd Street Y, "Giving Tuesday" is December 3. Timms thinks this year instead of a "selfie" take an "un-selfie".

"So, the 'unselfie' takes that idea and says, 'Actually, share a picture of something more important.' Share a picture of you doing something useful for others; share a picture of a cause that matters deeply to you. Do something unselfish around Giving Tuesday," Timm urged.

Black Friday starts a few hours ahead this year. Early evening on Thursday this year, many major retailers are moving up the starts of their holiday sales. Last year, in response, the Hashtag Giving Tuesday movement sprang up. The Tuesday after Black Friday and Cyber Monday was designated a day of giving. The social-media movement runs the gamut from global charities to individuals.

Kentucky News Connection spoke with University of Kentucky grad student Whitney Hammons. Because of finals she began Giving Tuesday early, using a fitness app to walk charity miles.

"I started about a week ago," Hammons said. "I have given to three different charities and I've walked about 12 miles so far."

She's raising money for Stand Up to Cancer, Special Olympics and Autism Speaks.

While retailers rely on the period between Black Friday and Christmas for a major portion of their annual sales, Giving Tuesday argues for a pause to consider sharing over shopping.

Timms says, "Every year, we hear a lot of people complaining about ... they think things are too consumer-focused," he said. "What we hope is that Giving Tuesday gives them a chance to really put that complaint to good use and think, 'How can I give something back?'"

Whitney wrapped - pun intended - it up for us: "I think everyone deserves to enjoy the holidays and to be able to give back to the communities, and give back to people is what the holidays are all about, so that's why I decided to do this," she stated.

 

 

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