Roxie Jerde is president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County

Last weekend, Gloria Musicae, along with Sarasota Young Voices and the Gulf Coast Community Choir, held an “In Thanksgiving” concert devoted to saluting the tradition of philanthropy that unites our community through the art of music. It’s often said that music is a universal language, and philanthropy shares that trait in so many ways. The spirit of philanthropy knows no boundaries and the joy of giving invokes a feeling of connection between people from all different walks of life and backgrounds. Much in the same way an artist reaps joy from sharing their talent, the act of giving is equally fulfilling.

I am reminded every day of how blessed we are to live in a community that is so rich in the values of philanthropy. With so many caring individuals, it’s no surprise our community is known for amazing acts of generosity that make a positive difference every single day. Sarasota has made a name for itself thanks to the incredible amount of impact that is being made in the areas of healthcare, education, arts, social services and a myriad of other causes that donors are passionate about.

I’m excited the third official Giving Tuesday, Dec. 2, is right around the corner! Started in 2012 by the United Nations Foundation and the 92^nd Street Y, Giving Tuesday was envisioned as a movement to create a national day of giving back, as well as kick off the giving season and highlight philanthropy in the United States. The campaign is now getting bigger than ever, and thousands of nonprofits, foundations, corporations and communities are committing to raising awareness for important causes everywhere. Since we have a day for being grateful followed by a couple of intense days for gift buying, isn’t it terrific there is an effort creating a tradition to celebrate the joy of giving and how you can really make a positive difference?

This year, the Community Foundation of Sarasota County is pleased to offer $100,000 to match all Season of Sharing donations-dollar for dollar-that are received on Dec. 2.  As a founder of Season of Sharing 15 years ago to ensure families on the verge of homelessness are able to remain in their homes, the Community Foundation would like to magnify the powerful national day of giving that showcases the giving spirit and inspires all generations of philanthropists.

If you’re looking for more causes and organizations to support this Giving Tuesday, the Giving Partner–www.thegivingpartner.org-is a great resource. Launched in 2012 from a collaborative effort by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, Gulf Coast Community Foundation and Manatee Community Foundation, with support from The Patterson Foundation, the Giving Partner is an online tool that provides in-depth information about more than 430 nonprofit organizations that serve Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota counties. You can ensure that your Giving Tuesday contributions are going to good use!

As we enter this holiday season, remember that while the majority of giving occurs between Thanksgiving and New Years, our community’s charities, and more significantly, those they aid, need support year round.

It’s never too late–or too early–to become a philanthropist. People making a difference through acts of generosity come in all shapes and sizes, whether it is volunteering your time, lending your talents, or sharing your treasure, each role plays a part in reinforcing our community’s reputation as a gem of the nation in philanthropy. Every act of giving is a vote of confidence and commitment for your love of this region.

Roxie Jerde is president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County