SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Today is "Giving Tuesday, a national movement that is bringing communities together to support local causes. The goal of this day is to spread generosity and encourage people to give back to their communities. Dakin Humane Society and STCC are among those hoping to receive funds. The Tuesday after Thanksgiving has become one of the biggest fundraising days of the year. It brings communities together to support local organizations and causes through the power of social media. "Sharing our social media posts when we share an adoptable pet, if they take that post and share it on their pages that helps a pet so much," said a Spokesperson for Dakin Humane Society, Lee Chambers. Giving Tuesday allows nonprofits like Dakin Humane Society to not only encourage people to adopt but also help donate online to make sure each animal that is surrendered to the shelter, receives the care they need. "So every day the challenges are there and every day we are able thankfully to our community who able to support us to attend to these things," expressed Chambers. Dakin is still accepting donations and is hoping to raise a total of $40,000. STCC is also taking part in Giving Tuesday, to help support students facing financial challenges. They began raising funds with their "Coffee for a Cause" drive-thru event. "The coffee for a cause helps us to overcome the barriers that prevent students from still appreciating the full free access, now free access gets you tuition but it doesn't cover other needed expenses," said Assistant Vice President at Advancement for STCC, Dr. Karen Walker. The college is hoping to raise a total of $5,000 to help students who struggle with the costs of food, technology and other essentials necessary for academic success. They are also hoping for massive waves of brand-new donors through this day and hope they'll remain long-term supporters. Local News Headlines WEATHER ALERT: Snow Wednesday evening through Thursday morning Marcotte Ford donates $10K in gifts to families in need Local organizations participate in ‘Giving Tuesday’ in hopes of gaining community support & raise funds Lawmakers’ plan for closing the budget gap WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.