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We’re in the middle of the unofficial season of giving.

Though area nonprofits are in need year-round, this is the time of year where it really matters and where you can give them a boost to end the year on the right note as they make preparations for a new year.

Though there are many ways to give, one way to consider giving is through the annual GiveMN campaign. GiveMN was launched in 2009 as a collaborative venture led by Minnesota Community Foundation and other organizations committed to making the state a better place.

That year, they started something called Give to the Max Day, which raised $14 million in 24 hours to go toward nonprofits and schools throughout the state, according to the organization. It has increased steadily in the years since as a platform for thousands of nonprofits to benefit from.

The organization states since 2009, more than 750,000 donors have given nearly $400 million to 14,000 nonprofits and schools using the giving platform.

Early Giving for Give to the Max this year began Nov. 1 and will culminate Nov. 21 with Give to the Max Day.

To get involved this year, we encourage you to visit GiveMN.org, and look up your favorite organization and consider giving. You can also use the toolbar to search for “Albert Lea” or “Freeborn County.” The site will pull up many organizations right here at home that you can contribute to.

Oftentimes there are also opportunities for the participating nonprofits to win extra money on Give to the Max Day.

If you would rather not give online and would rather give directly to an organization in-person or through the mail, we’re sure nonprofits will gladly accept those options, too.

If you’re inclined to give, but don’t have the means to do so, we encourage you to consider donating your time or energy as a volunteer or with a special project.

Nonprofits do so much good in the community, and it’s important we continue to support them so that their work can continue.