We learned from the whos down in Whoville that Christmas doesn t come in a box, so I m not going to miss (too much) the big gift exchange that typically happens with my extended family around the tree. But I am going to miss the holiday tradition of carving the roast beast in the company of my sister, brothers, nieces, nephews, in-laws and friends this weekend. It s not going to be the same without enjoying big meals around big tables with lots of big love. But with the way that COVID cases are jumping, I m gonna follow the advice of the health experts out there and keep it simple this year. Next year, tho..
With COVID-19 maintaining its hold as the year draws to a close, it almost seems quaint how some once hoped the pandemic would subside by Easter. But as cases and death counts continued to rise, holiday and festival celebrations further into the year tumbled like dominos: the Tucson Festival of Books, the Fourth Avenue Street Fair, the All Souls Procession, and even the downtown Parade of Lights, the Oro Valley Holiday Drive-thru and Winterhaven Festival of Lights all cancelled.
Beyond public events, health departments even advised against large indoor gatherings during the winter holidays. For many, it’s an isolating end to an already difficult year. But for others, it’s an opportunity to find a way to stay safe – and salvage the holidays.
With thousands of nonprofit organizations, Tucson regularly ranks as one of the most charitable cities in the country. Hundreds of these are even locally focused, meaning your contributions can directly feed back into the community. Itâs no surprise to learn 2020 has been an exceptionally difficult year for the nonprofit sector. With economic downturns, people are donating less, and with social distancing, people are volunteering less. The Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits estimates state nonprofits may lose more than $400 million by yearâs end. According to their October report, the majority of Arizona nonprofits are projecting a net operating loss for the year. Luckily, 51% of organizations indicate it is âhighly unlikelyâ that they will have to close permanently in their next fiscal year.Â
Editor s Note: As of the
Weekly s print time, the Tucson City Council was considering implementing a nightly curfew, so we ve included a mixture of virtual and in-person events so you can have something to do no matter their decision.
Native American Arts Fair. Tis certainly the season for local craft fairs, but this one is pretty special: It features all Native American artists selling their work at Mission Garden! Wares include baskets, paintings, gourds, carvings, clothing and jewelry, and there will be artists and storytellers speaking throughout the event as well. It s a great chance to learn more about traditional skills and gardening including some of the items grown at Mission Garden and to pick up a one-of-a-kind gift for someone special. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5. Mission Garden, 946 W. Mission Lane.
Giving & Tax Guide: Help local nonprofits survive an unprecedented year
Even during the pandemic, Make Way For Books is encouraging local childhood literacy with their app and online events. With thousands of nonprofit organizations, Tucson regularly ranks as one of the most charitable cities in the country. Hundreds of these are even locally focused, meaning your contributions can directly feedback into the community. It’s no surprise to learn 2020 has been an exceptionally difficult year for the nonprofit sector. With economic downturns, people are donating less, and with social distancing, people are volunteering less. The Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits estimates state nonprofits may lose more than $400 million by year’s end. According to their October report, the majority of Arizona nonprofits are projecting a net operating loss for the year. Luckily, 51% of organizations indicate it is “highly unlikely” that they will have to close permanently in their nex