NORWICH—Taking place in neighborhoods across the nation, today marks the fifth anniversary of a day of philanthropy, #GivingTuesday which is a global day of giving, fueled by the power of social media and collaboration.

But while #GivingTuesday is the national day of giving that occurs on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Cyber Monday each year; #NYGivesDay builds on the focus of #GivingTuesday by engaging many of the major nonprofit networks and leaders in New York State to encourage more nonprofits and donors to participate.

One organization taking part in today's giving initiative is Chenango's nonprofit United Way Chapter headquartered in Norwich. Hoping to see a bump in its annual fundraising appeal, Executive Director Elizabeth Monaco say's that #NYGivesDay is a convenient alternative to more traditional funding streams for many.

“The essence of #NYGivesDay program is that is serves as a great opportunity for community members for do some greater good for our community while they're in the spending spirit,” said Monaco. “It's a great way for folks who may be reluctant or even unable to give year-round to a local cause or nonprofit to make a difference, and even become informed and educated about the organizations around them.”