Giving Tuesday a success for Triangle nonprofits

Giving Tuesday is a social media campaign that began in 2012 to encourage people to give during the holiday season.

The Christmas Center for the Salvation Army of Wake County said this year Giving Tuesday prompted additional volunteers to help sort, pack and wrap thousands of boxes and gifts for needy families.

"Back in October, we registered about 8,000 kids from Wake County alone to be part of our Christmas Cheer program," said spokeswoman Lizzy Adams. "So, they will receive new toys, clothing and stockings this holiday season."

Katie Jackson spent her day with her volunteer team from Lenovo to help the Christmas Center get organized.

"It is definitely lifting our spirits," she said. "We want to tweet out some pictures and show our fellow employees and the community that we like to give back and tie it in with the entire hashtag project."

Volunteer Nick Edwards said he thinks the campaign is a great way to raise awareness about a good cause.

"That is what the season is about," he said. "I hope me doing this...encourages people. It is not just Giving Tuesday, it is every day of the year."

Adams said, even if a person is unable to donate, spreading the word and re-tweeting is helpful too.

Irene Godinez, the United Way vice president of marketing and communication, said their social media campaign saw traction on Facebook.

"People are responding the way we had hoped," she said. "It seems that people are listening, so it seems like a good way to make a difference after a weekend of shopping with family and friends."

The campaign was also deemed a success for the Interfaith Food Shuttle. A spokesperson said the nonprofit brought in more than $5,000.