This week officially kicked off a season of giving.

After the shopping events of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, there was another day this week that is not as widely known: #GivingTuesday. This day began five years ago and encourages people to celebrate and encourage giving.

People across the world have started embracing the day as an opportunity to raise money for local nonprofits, schools and arts organizations; run food and clothing drives; teach children about philanthropy; encourage acts of kindness and collaborate with their neighbors.

In 2015 alone, nonprofits raised more than $117 million online on #GivingTuesday, and much more was donated offline.

This year, that number grew to $168 million online, according to USA Today.

It is phenomenal what good the members of society can do when they come together under a common goal to benefit organizations that do so much for others. These organizations often rely on donations to run their operations.

We hope this spirit of giving will continue for the rest of the month — both locally and nationwide.

If you know of an organization that you think is doing great things, now is the perfect time to give back and support their efforts.

In Freeborn County, there are numerous organizations that are making a difference. At this time of year, the Salvation Army and the United Way of Freeborn County are two organizations that are in the middle of fundraising campaigns, but they are not the only ones in need of financial contributions.

If you are unable to give financially, there are many other ways you can give — whether that be through your time or talents.

Giving — in whatever capacity — will not only strengthen the community, but it will strengthen you.