Giving Tuesday 2024 is on December 3! This year, Understood.org hopes to raise $50,000 to make a difference in the lives of the 70 million people in the United States who learn and think differently.

I’m Rayma Griffin, an expert at Understood. I was part of the founding team at Understood — and also a practitioner with 40+ years of experience working with children who have learning challenges and with their families. As a consultant, I now provide information and resources to help families get the support they need to make sure their kids can thrive.

My passion for this work stems from the belief that all children can learn when they have the right instruction and intervention. Experience taught me that families often need help to recognize their children’s strengths and needs — and then to learn how to advocate for them. 

I’ve seen how lack of understanding and lack of resources hinders potential and creates lifelong challenges.

But when kids get the individualized instruction and support they really need, I see life-changing results. 

Empowering families with information and encouragement helps them navigate their children’s journey. This realization drives me every day to ensure that all kids have the support they need to be the best they can be. 

This is why our work at Understood is so important. 

Understood’s free, expert-vetted resources empower parents, educators, and individuals. From comprehensive guides to downloadable toolkits and an expansive podcast library, we’re using our expertise to break down barriers and build a more inclusive world. A world where valuable, accurate information is available to anyone who’s looking for support. A world where every child can thrive.

Here’s how you can make a difference this Giving Tuesday: 

• Make a donation: We know that you’re just as committed as we are to giving kids the best start. With your financial support, we’re all working together to make it happen.

• Start a fundraiser: Set up a personal fundraising page and encourage your friends and family to support your efforts. Share your own story about why it matters to you.

• Share on social media: Spread the word about Giving Tuesday and Understood. Share posts, use hashtags, and encourage your followers to get involved. Follow Understood on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn!

• Support matching gifts: Find out if your employer has a matching gift program. Your donation could be doubled or even tripled, making your impact even greater.

• Be an advocate: Share your insights and experiences with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia, on social media. Tell friends, family, and colleagues. Talking about it raises awareness and helps reduce misinformation and stigma. 

When you get involved, you’ll amplify the spirit of Giving Tuesday and make a meaningful impact in the Understood community! Donate here.

Rayma Griffin is a paid Understood.org expert.