One thing we’ve continually seen from the global pandemic sweeping the nation is that North Texas companies step up for their community. Most recently, three local philanthropic powerhouses have decided to join forces and raise COVID-19 relief funds for those closest to home.

Communities Foundation of Texas, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, and the Dallas Cowboys are spearheading the local edition of the Giving Tuesday movement (#GivingTuesdayNow globally) to boost local nonprofits feeling the impact of the coronavirus crisis. ‘North Texas Giving Tuesday Now’ will be what organizers call a “one-day emergency giving blitz” on May 5, hosted on the traditional North Texas Giving Day platform.

Last year’s 11th annual North Texas Giving Day was one of Communities Foundation of Texas’ highlights. $50 million was raised for 3,000 nonprofits, surpassing 2018’s record of $48 million. During the event, more than 100,000 donors made 169,000 donations and pledged 622,000 volunteer hours.

“This is about inspiring local unity, action, and generosity. Our community, country, and world need our support now more than ever before.”
DAVE SCULLIN

 

Given today’s climate, 2020 will look a little a different: The organizations will lead the community in raising funds specifically for those on the front lines assisting North Texans most adversely affected by COVID-19.

“This is about inspiring local unity, action, and generosity. Our community, country, and world need our support now more than ever before,” Dave Scullin, president and CEO of Communities Foundation of Texas, said in a statement. Scullin, who is also the founder of North Texas Giving Day, said together, the three organizations will lead unparalleled efforts to address local needs.

To stay on par with social distancing, North Texas Giving Tuesday Now will be an online campaign for donors to gift any amount, giving directly to local service-providing organizations. According to organizers, the day intends to virtually bring people together to support nonprofits in need following the cancellation of most spring fundraising events and the evergrowing demand for coronavirus relief.

“This region is better together, and we are in this with you North Texas.”
CHARLOTTE JONES

“There is no greater need for solidarity and partnership than during a crisis,” Charlotte Jones, Dallas Cowboys VP and chief brand officer, said in a statement. “This region is better together, and we are in this with you North Texas.”

The participating organizations have been leading the charge locally in coronavirus support. Communities Foundation of Texas, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, and more than 15 additional funders last week announced North Texas Cares, a shared grant application to help ease the burden nonprofits have undertaken in the most efficient way possible. 

The funders use a shared portal to access information submitted by nonprofits—but to apply, an org must be providing critical services related to COVID-19. That way, organizers are able to ensure those hit hardest will receive assistance as quickly as possible, Jennifer Sampson, McDermott-Templeton president and CEO of United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, said at the time. More than $1.3 million in grants has already been awarded.

“We witness the power of unity to create change every day at United Way,” Sampson said. “Especially in times like these, North Texans always step forward together to support our communities. This crisis can be a defining moment of solidarity. Our nonprofits are on the front lines, and they need everyone’s generous support to respond to the unprecedented need created by this pandemic.”

Stay tuned for the launch of the North Texas Giving Tuesday Now website, where early gifts can be made starting on April 14.

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