'Giving Tuesday' starts, supporters encourage spreading the word and using #GivingTuesday

PHOENIX - There's a nationwide push to spread the word on Giving Tuesday. The day focuses on giving back and falls on the Tuesday after Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Organizations and individuals banded together in an effort to change the way people think about the holiday season.

The goal is simple. Participants are encouraged to give and spread the word.  According to GivingTuesday.org, there are more than 2,000 charities, businesses, schools, religious and community groups involved. 

Southwest Human Development, in Phoenix, is a partner.  Kim Carkhuff, with SWHD, said all individuals can get involved either by donating or volunteering their time.  

Individuals are asked to use the hashtag, #GivingTuesday, to spread the word on social media.

For more information, visit http://givingtuesday.org/

To find out about volunteer opportunities, contact: http://www.swhd.org/