A week from today, Thanksgiving will be just a memory (fond for some, hostile for others). As we begin forgetting the political debates, which aunt drank too much red wine, and whether this pan belongs to you or your sister, let’s try not to forget the name sake of the holiday: it’s a time for giving thanks for what we have, whether that be material possessions, a roof to keep you and your family safe, or even just our health.

This is the time of year when we can be swept up with the holiday deals and running from party to party, let’s remember that there are a lot of people who are less fortunate then us, and maybe don’t even have a place to call home. Thankfully, there are organizations that are helping those who are facing tremendous circumstances, from homelessness to facing diseases without healthcare, and even intimate partner violence, just to scratch the surface. These non-profit organizations don’t close their doors for the holidays, and unfortunately, a large number of them notice an increased need for their services.

Throughout the year, a lot of organizations have a hard time making ends meet to keep their doors open to help those in their communities. While you’re making your holiday shopping list, deciding whether to brave Black Friday crowds, saving your shopping for Small Business Saturday, or waiting for Cyber Monday, don’t forget about Giving Tuesday, a day where people are encouraged to give to non-profit organizations to help organizations attain their goals and help those in need.

Created by the 92nd Street Y in 2012, they describe the day as one meant to “connect diverse groups of individuals, communities and organizations around the world for one common purpose: to celebrate and encourage giving.” If there is one lesson I can take from working in the non-profit sector, it’s that communities who come together can accomplish great things, and without community support, may non-profits would have to shut their doors.

I encourage you all to take fifteen minutes out of your day on Tuesday and give to a cause that resonates with you. If you want to know more about how this organization uses their gifts, check out CharityNavigator.org, a non-partisan group which rates non-profit organizations on how they manage their finances. Even if you don’t have a large amount to give, gifts of any size demonstrate your commitment to your community and the organizations’ mission.