We’ve already given thanks. We’ve gotten amazing deals (looking at you, Brown Amber Saturday). Now, it’s time for something even more important — giving back. Giving Tuesday, which takes place today, Dec. 1st, is a day of giving back and celebrating the spirit of generosity. We thought we’d get into the spirit by highlighting five local Austin non-profit organizations we love.

1.

 

Girlstart empowers young girls in STEM (science, math, engineering, and technology). We’re 

 

 

 

2.

LifeWorks is an incredible organization that serves 6,000 youth and families working toward a path to self sufficiency in the face of some of life’s most difficult challenges. This organization creates support for their clients through counseling, housing, education, and youth development.

 

3.

I Live Here, I Give Here’s mission is to encourage the Austin community in giving back to local organizations. ILHIGH works with over 500 local non-profits and has created the program, Amplify Austin, which launched a 24-hour giving day in March.

 

4.

Rescuing animals since 2008, Austin Pets Alive! has saved more than 25,000 cats and dogs and is working toward creating a “No-Kill Central Texas.”

 

5.

 

Founded in 1981, Capital Area Food Bank doesn’t only feed the hungry, but it stomps out hunger all together. This organization serves nearly 46,000 people a week, serves 21 counties in Central Texas, and provides food and grocery products to a network of 300 partner agencies.