International Day of Charity

International Day of Charity History

International Day of Charity serves as a platform to promote charitable actions and encourage people to contribute to those in need. As a United Nations' global observance, this day aims to address both social and environmental challenges that humanity faces, as well as enhance the spirit of solidarity. The observance plays an essential role in raising public awareness about the importance of philanthropy and the impact it can have on vulnerable populations across the world.

The observance was established by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2012 in honor of the passing of Mother Teresa. For individuals and organizations in America, the International Day of Charity creates an opportunity to gain knowledge about and appreciate the impact of charitable giving in various aspects of society – from alleviating poverty and supporting education to advocating for human rights and addressing climate change. This day also reminds Americans of their long-standing philanthropic tradition and its significance in creating a more equitable and sustainable world.

In the United States, the International Day of Charity is observed through various events and activities centered around acts of giving and volunteering. Fundraising events, awareness campaigns, volunteer drives, and community programs are organized by numerous non-profit organizations, businesses, and educational institutions to support their chosen causes. Individuals are encouraged to contribute by donating to charities, volunteering time, or spreading awareness on social media. The International Day of Charity takes place annually on September 5th, fostering a spirit of solidarity, compassion, and social responsibility.

Top 6 Facts for International Day of Charity in 2026

• According to the CAF World Giving Index 2021, more than three billion people helped someone they didn’t know in 2020.
• 98.4% of high earning households give to charity and 63% say that a major motivation for their donations is to give back to the community.
• On average, high-net-worth individuals give approximately $29,269 to charity each year. This is significantly higher than the average annual donation of $2,520 for all U.S. households.
• According to nonprofitssource.com, 30% of annual giving occurs in December, and 10% of all year giving occurs within the last 3 days of the year.
• The annual average US household charitable donation is $2,974.
• Let us always meet each other with smile, for the smile is the beginning of love – Mother Teresa, world-renowned nun and missionary.

In the News and Trending in the US for International Day of Charity

Top things to do in the US for International Day of Charity

• Spread awareness about the holiday by using the hashtags #InternationalDayofCharity, #Charity and #MamaT.
• Read a book about the impact and importance of charitable work and about the charitable life that Mother Teresa led. Some suggestions are: Abundance, Systems Thinking for Social Change, Start Something that Matters, The Joy in Loving and Mother Teresa: A Simple Path.
• Watch a movie about the impact and importance of charitable work. Some suggestions are: Pay it Forward (2000), It Could Happen to You (1994), and The Letters (2014).
• Buy a book that directly supports charity. All net proceeds from any of the books listed go directly to charity. Ready a great story and support a good cause all at once!
• Donate to your favorite charity. If you do not have a charity of choice. There’s a charity that just about everyone can find reason to support out there.