By Jennifer Mauro| Managing Editor

#GivingTuesday is known as a global day of giving, but it’s also one of the best ways to get involved in the community in one’s own back yard.

Such is the hope of this year’s #GivingTuesday campaign in the Diocese of Trenton, which aims to support Catholic education in Burlington, Mercer, Monmouth and Ocean Counties.

“The goal is engagement,” said Christine Prete, market research analyst in the Diocese’s Department of Development. “To be able to reach out to everyone who has an interest in supporting Catholic education and make them aware that Catholic schools need their support to be sustainable.”

On Nov. 27, the day of the global social media movement, donors can visit www.catholicschoolshaveitall.org, where they will have the option to help Catholic schools in the Diocese in three ways: make a secure, tax-deductible contribution; volunteer their time or say a prayer.

One-hundred percent of the funds raised will go to the schools directly, Prete said, explaining that donors can give to a school of their choice or to a general assistance fund. Schools will indicate what the monies will be used for, such as a general fund, tuition assistance or a specific project/program.

Anyone can be involved, from current Catholic school families, relatives and friends to alumni, parish communities and cohorts.

“The kindness and generous spirit of many create a positive impact for our students,” said JoAnn Tier, diocesan superintendent of Catholic Schools. “Giving is investing in the future of tomorrow’s leaders. This is an investment marked by continuous returns.”

Though the national day of giving is Nov. 27, Prete said donors can visit the website ahead of time to donate early or learn more about the importance of faith-based education.

#GivingTuesday, she said, “helps the Diocese of Trenton use its collective resources to help schools.”