YORK COUNTY, Pa. — The biggest day of giving in York County officially kicks off in less than 12 hours.
Kate Harmon, Give Day coordinator, says she's normally an excited person anyways, but Give Local York kicks her enthusiasm into high gear.
"It's even scarier on days like today because I actually drink caffeine," she joked. "So then I'm even more caffeinated and excited."
Last year, the 24 hours of philanthropy raised over $4.5 million for nearly 300 nonprofits. This year, there are about 320 nonprofits participating, with around 30 being new organizations or new to Give Local York.
The goal for 2024 is to rack up over 13,000 donors, which Harmon says represents about 3% of York County residents.
"We don't like to throw out a dollar goal, because we're all about donors," Harmon said. "So when we say 'every donor matters,' we mean it. Whether it's a minimum $5 or a $10,000 check."
She recommends that anyone interested in donating check out the nonprofits ahead of time so they're ready to donate when the window opens at 9 p.m. tonight. Donors can browse the participating organizations online and add up to 10 to their cart before the giving window opens.
"The cool thing about Give Local is that more than half of our nonprofits are extra small to small organizations," Harmon said. "So their annual budgets are under $250,000. So these donations are really game changers for them. There are things that they cannot do without the donations that are coming in."
Give Local York will open to donations at 9 p.m. tonight, May 2, and accept money until 9 p.m. on May 3. To donate, visit the website.