Italians dedicate national day to celebrate and inspire national giving

Italians have allocated a national day to celebrate and encourage charitable giving (“Giorno del Dono”) after its first national giving day  (on 04 October 2015) was hailed a success.

The national celebration day for giving, (which will take place on 4^th October annually) is timed to coincide with the celebration of St. Francis of Assisi, who is associated with the concepts of peace, fraternity, different cultures and religions.

The inaugural celebration day in 2015 achieved immense support from the public, including celebrities such as Roberto Vecchioni (Italian singer and composer) and Enrico Bertolino (comedian). The public were encouraged to give quickly and easily online or to promote the concept, using the hashtag #ilDonoXme (which translates as #myGift).

Italian schools, local towns and authorities were encouraged to get involved with celebrations, with schools sharing videos that illustrated their personal perception of giving and towns and cities hosting local events to garner support.

Sergio Mattarella, President of the Italian Republic, said: “Many of our fears today lead towards selfishness. Giving needs heart. Giving can give hope, rebuild ties and create confidence. Giving builds communities, fights hatred and sows peace and serenity.”

With an annual day devoted to charitable giving, the intention is for the culture of giving to become contagious, making the practice of giving a daily act for Italians across the country.

Legislation was passed for the date to be formally registered, initiated by the Istituto Italiano della Donazione (IID) and supported by Senator Carlo Azeglio Ciampi, the former President of the Republic.