GiveNOLA Day, hosted annually by the Greater New Orleans Foundation, is more than just a 24-hour day of giving. It’s a civic tradition that unites friends, neighbors, nonprofits and local businesses to support the causes that embody the strength and vitality of our region. The event’s impact is felt across our 13 parishes because it:
- Has raised over $71.2 million for regional nonprofits since 2013
- Mobilizes thousands of residents to give generously, creating a shared sense of purpose. It’s a day where everyone gets to be a philanthropist!
- Elevates local nonprofits, many of which utilize this day for essential operating support
- Builds regional pride, reminding people that their contributions — large or small — shape the community they call home. When thousands of people in our region and beyond give at once, even the smallest donations resonate as a larger movement.
- Increases visibility of community needs, as so many of our nonprofits often work quietly behind the scenes. GiveNOLA Day creates an opportunity for them to share their stories and reach new supporters.
- Creates a sense of belonging, giving our friends and neighbors the opportunity to see themselves as active contributors, creating a more just and equitable community for us all.
The collective momentum is part of what makes GiveNOLA Day so powerful. When the entire region rallies together, even a $10 donation becomes part of a much larger story.
How GiveNOLA Day Supports Local Nonprofits
Many nonprofits are facing challenging times, often operating with limited resources, and GiveNOLA Day can provide an injection of financial support and visibility. GiveNOLA Day helps to provide:
- Critical funding that supports programs, staff, and emergency needs
- Donor engagement opportunities and new donor relationships, especially from those who may not have known about the nonprofit’s work or impact before
- Public awareness and visibility, which can be just as valuable as direct financial support
- Opportunities to learn and execute new outreach tactics, as the Greater New Orleans Foundation offers virtual trainings and shares best practices to help organizations amplify their reach and the effectiveness of their fundraising efforts
For many organizations, the visibility gained during GiveNOLA Day lasts long after the event ends, making GiveNOLA Day more than just a moment of generosity, but a strategic investment in the long-term sustainability of our region.
Economic and Social Ripple Effects
The benefits extend beyond nonprofits. GiveNOLA Day helps energize our entire region:
- Many of our local businesses, big and small, leverage GiveNOLA Day as an opportunity to show their deep investment in our community through sponsorships and matching gifts, which strengthens their connection to our community. We extend our sincerest thanks to our host sponsor, Baptist Community Ministries, along with Entergy, Ochsner Health, and the dozens of organizations and individuals who give selflessly to make GiveNOLA Day a success
- Civic pride swells as our generous donors see the collective impact of their contributions
- Volunteerism and engagement increase, since donors often become more engaged after learning about new causes through GiveNOLA Day
These ripple effects help create a more resilient and connected community.
Looking Ahead
As GiveNOLA Day enters its 13th year, its importance and impact only deepens. It’s more than just a one-day fundraising event, it’s our community’s annual reminder of what we can accomplish when we all show up for one another. And at the Greater New Orleans Foundation, we are honored to keep playing our part.
Together, on GiveNOLA Day 2026, let’s again show the world that Greater New Orleans is the most generous region in America!
Andy Kopplin is president and CEO of the Greater New Orleans Foundation (GNOF), dedicated to driving positive impact through philanthropy, leadership and action in the Greater New Orleans Region. He may be reached via email at Andy@GNOF.org.
