Durham Gives Back: How To Make A Difference This Season And Beyond

Giving Tuesday is all about generosity — and some of the most meaningful giving happens right here at home. Celebrated the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, Giving Tuesday shifts the focus from finding deals to doing good. But there’s no reason to wait — or stop once the day has passed.

This year, Patch and T-Mobile are spotlighting organizations in the Durham area that are making a difference and helping others in need. These local groups are doing important work, and there are plenty of ways to support them — from donating and volunteering to spreading the word. This isn’t a complete list, but it’s a great place to start, so be sure to reach out to each organization directly to learn how you can help.

Coginchaug Valley Education Foundation

The Coginchaug Valley Education Foundation promotes lifelong learning and creativity in Durham and Middlefield through community grants and educational programs. Run by local volunteers, the foundation funds projects that benefit residents of all ages, from children to seniors, and supports innovative ideas that strengthen connections across generations.
Learn more: coginchaugvef.org

Connecticut Junior Women, Inc.

Connecticut Junior Women, Inc. is a statewide volunteer organization of women dedicated to improving their communities through service, leadership and philanthropy. With member clubs across Connecticut, the group supports local, state and global initiatives while empowering women to grow personally and professionally.
Learn more: cjw.org

Durham Fair Foundation

The Durham Fair Foundation works to preserve and promote Connecticut’s agricultural and rural heritage through educational events and exhibits. Serving as the charitable arm of the Durham Agricultural Fair Association, the foundation funds programs that celebrate farming traditions and support community learning.
Learn more: durhamfair.com/support/durham-fair-foundation

Everyone Outside

Everyone Outside connects people of all ages with nature through outdoor programs, hikes and educational experiences. Based in central Connecticut, the nonprofit offers accessible, low-cost activities that encourage families, children and adults to build a deeper relationship with the environment and their community.
Learn more: everyoneoutside.org

Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut, Inc.

The Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut, Inc. brings together local garden clubs to promote civic beauty, conservation and environmental stewardship. Through events, education and community projects, the organization encourages higher standards in gardening and the preservation of Connecticut’s natural resources.
Learn more: ctgardenclubs.org

The Giving Garden of Durham/Middlefield

The Giving Garden of Durham/Middlefield is a volunteer-run community garden dedicated to growing fresh produce for local families in need. In addition to its food donations, the garden offers workshops, educational talks and hands-on activities that bring neighbors together to learn and connect in a peaceful outdoor space.
Learn more: facebook.com/profile.php

Help Willy’s Friends

Help Willy’s Friends supports animal shelters and rescue organizations by collecting and distributing food, supplies and funds across Connecticut. This Durham-based nonprofit helps extend shelter resources, fund medical care and promote spay and neuter programs to reduce animal overpopulation.
Learn more: helpwillysfriends.org

Middlefield Lions Club

The Middlefield Lions Club has served the community for decades through local projects and fundraising efforts that support vision care, humanitarian aid and neighborhood improvements. Every dollar raised goes back to the community and global causes, continuing the Lions’ long tradition of service.
Learn more: e-clubhouse.org/sites/middlefield

Rotary Club of Middletown

The Rotary Club of Middletown unites community leaders and professionals to advance goodwill and service both locally and around the world. Members volunteer their time to humanitarian projects and community initiatives while fostering fellowship and learning through weekly programs and guest speakers.
Learn more: middletownrotary.org

The Young People's Center for Creative Arts

The Young People’s Center for Creative Arts enriches the lives of children across central Connecticut by providing accessible theater education and performance opportunities. Founded in 1982, YPCCA offers summer camps, classes and productions that nurture creativity, confidence and collaboration in young performers.
Learn more: ypcca.org

Give back in whatever way feels right for you — together, we can make an impact in Durham.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.