Giving Tuesday is the perfect moment for families in Camarillo, Ventura, and Oxnard to come together and make a meaningful impact close to home. Whether you prefer donating, volunteering, or sharing resources, this annual day of generosity gives us the chance to lift up local nonprofits that strengthen our neighborhoods every day.

What is Giving Tuesday?

Giving Tuesday is a global day of generosity that takes place every year on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving. In 2025, it falls on December 2. While national and international charities always welcome support, choosing local nonprofits helps ensure that your generosity stays here in our community where your family lives, learns, and plays. Local giving supports the organizations that our neighbors rely on and helps keep vital services strong across Ventura County.

Ideas of Local Nonprofits to Support This Giving Tuesday

Your Child’s PTA or PTSA

Check your school website for the PTA or PTSA page.
Ways to support:

• Donate money
• Participate in school fundraisers
• Ask what items they need (teacher treats, supplies, event support)

As a long-time PTA board member and current PTSA President, I can promise that the work is meaningful but not always easy. You do not need to join the board to make a difference. Even small donations or a few needed items can go a long way.

James Storehouse

Newbury Park, serving Ventura and Los Angeles County
Website: https://www.jamesstorehouse.org/

James Storehouse supports foster families, children entering care, and young adults who have aged out of the system. Their work is incredibly heart-centered and provides real help when families need it most.
Ways to support:

• Donate funds online
• Give new or gently used clothing and household items
• Shop their Amazon wishlist with items shipped directly to them

Ventura County Animal Services

Website: https://www.vcas.us/

VCAS cares for thousands of animals each year and supports a large network of foster families. They often operate at or near capacity and rely on the community for help.
Ways to support:

• Volunteer at the shelter
• Donate funds
• Purchase from their Amazon wishlist
• Consider fostering if your household is a good match

Friends of Fieldworkers

Website: https://friendsoffieldworkers.org/

Our fieldworkers are essential members of our community. They work long hours, support their families, and contribute deeply to the fabric of Ventura County. Supporting this group is not political. It is simply caring for our neighbors.
Ways to support:

• Donate funds
• Sponsor holiday gifts or care packages- scroll to the bottom of this page to see thier wishlists

Food Share of Ventura County

Website: https://foodshare.com/
Food Share provides nutritious food to families, seniors, and individuals throughout Ventura County.
Ideas: Donate funds, drop off shelf-stable foods, or volunteer with your kids for a family service day.

Casa Pacifica Centers for Children and Families

Website: https://www.casapacifica.org/
Casa Pacifica supports vulnerable children and teens with safe housing, crisis care, and therapeutic support.
Ideas: Donate funds, buy items off their Target or Amazon wishlist, or join their seasonal giving programs.

Autism Society Ventura County

Website: https://www.autismventura.org/

Autism Society Ventura County supports individuals with autism and their families through advocacy, education, social programs, and community connection. They are a wonderful local resource and partner, offering events, support groups, and inclusive activities for all ages.
Ways to support:

• Donate funds to help expand local programs
• Attend or sponsor one of their community events
• Share their resources with families who might benefit
• Volunteer at inclusive activities or family gatherings

Interface Children and Family Services

Website: https://www.icfs.org/
Interface offers vital services including mental health support, crisis response, youth programs, and family strengthening.
Ideas: Donate funds, support their holiday giving efforts, or share their hotline info to raise awareness.

When visiting events and local businesses, be sure to tell them Macaroni KID sent you... and don't forget to tell all your friends!