Giving Tuesday began in 2012 as a gentle reminder that in the midst of the annual festive shopping whirlwind, taking a moment to think of those less fortunate can make all the difference. It now stands as a global movement across 60 countries and aims to motivate generosity, inspiring hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate and celebrate giving in all its forms.
Why Giving Tuesday Matters to Jack and Jill
The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation understands the value of this day. Our mission has always been centred around helping families with children facing highly-complex medical and life-limiting conditions. The care we provide, be it in-home nursing, respite care, or end-of-life support, is only made possible through the collective efforts of our donors, volunteers, and communities.
While our foundation continues to provide unwavering support every day of the year, Giving Tuesday offers a unique opportunity for the wider community to rally around causes like ours. This day serves as a potent reminder that each act of generosity, whether big or small, can usher in profound change.
A Tale of Giving: ‘Meet Ireland’
Charities touch our lives in many ways, whether it’s as a beneficiary or a recipient; we are all aware of the vital work the many charitable organisations across Ireland do. To demonstrate the wide reach charity and giving can have on an individual’s life, Charities Institute Ireland has woven a compelling narrative in their video.
Entitled ‘Meet Ireland’, this video poignantly captures the story of ‘Ireland’, a fictional Irish citizen. Throughout their life, Ireland encounters moments of struggle, adversity, and hope. At each of these junctures, a myriad of Irish charities, including The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, extend their support, guiding and nurturing Ireland through the thick and thin.
Without the unwavering support of charitable contributors, these life-altering interventions would be impossible. Each frame of the video is a testament to the difference that every donation, every volunteer hour, and every gesture of support can make.
The video ‘Meet Ireland’ can be seen below. As you follow Ireland’s tale, remember that every contribution on days like Giving Tuesday, and indeed every day, helps script similar stories of hope, resilience, and transformation.
How Can You Champion the Cause?
The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation is delighted to support #GivingTuesday to inspire people as to how they can give to help support in-home nursing care for children with complex medical needs in communities all over Ireland. It doesn’t always have to be about financial donations to make a difference, however those wishing to make a donation to The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation can easily do so through our website.
During Giving Tuesday, you can also volunteer your time, share your skills, donate goods or clothes to one of our 15 Jack and Jill Boutiques, organise a community event or challenge, or host a coffee morning. The list is endless! It’s a day to give back by supporting a cause close to your heart or doing something good for your local community, or someone in need. Interested parties can learn more about volunteering opportunities now on our website.
You can also use the day in order to raise awareness. Spreading the word can sometimes have the most profound impact. Talk about The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, share our mission, and join the broader conversation on social media using the hashtag #GivingTuesday and tagging our social channels.
Right now, across Ireland, The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation is supporting over 400 families with in-home nursing care and respite support. These children, up to the age of six, have neurodevelopmental delay associated with a severe cognitive delay. This may include children with a brain injury, genetic diagnosis, cerebral palsy or undiagnosed conditions. Another key part of the service is end-of-life care for all children up to the age of six, irrespective of diagnosis. To keep this vital service going, we rely on the generosity of others. The willingness of the public to support us as we support the families under our care never ceases to astound us and for that, we give our thanks.
