Residents of Dallas and Collin County can start supporting local charities now, thanks to a slate of free events organized by the Communities Foundation of Texas. The foundation’s pre‑Giving Day schedule runs from Sept. 3 through Sept. 14, giving donors a chance to meet nonprofit leaders, learn about their missions and contribute before the region‑wide fundraising day on Sept. 17.
Kick‑off at Klyde Warren Park
On Sept. 3, the Klyde Warren Park Young Professionals Mixer opens the series. From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., more than 30 nonprofits will set up booths alongside a ticketed reception priced at $25 per person, which includes two drinks and food. The event is designed to connect young professionals with volunteer opportunities and charitable giving options.
Family‑friendly fun at The Lawn, Grandscape
Collin County residents can head to The Lawn at Grandscape in The Colony on Sept. 12 for the SCHEELS Celebrates North Texas Giving Day event, running from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. The free gathering features interactive booths, hands‑on activities and live performances. Attendees can complete a passport‑style scavenger hunt for prizes and SCHEELS merchandise. All on‑site donations will be eligible for a special match, amplifying each contribution.
Downtown Dallas Day of Giving
The final pre‑Giving Day event takes place on Sept. 14 at Pegasus Plaza in downtown Dallas. From 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., the free plaza gathering offers another chance to meet nonprofit representatives and benefit from an on‑site donation match.
Giving Day itself
When Sept. 17 arrives, more than 3,000 participating nonprofits across North Texas will seek support from donors throughout the region. The Communities Foundation of Texas reports that last year’s Giving Day generated $78 million for charitable causes. This year, the foundation, its sponsors and donors are covering all transaction and technology fees, ensuring that 100 percent of each tax‑deductible online donation goes directly to the nonprofit.
Why it matters for families and faith communities
These events give families a safe, local venue to teach children the value of generosity and to involve church groups in community outreach. By meeting nonprofit staff face‑to‑face, donors can see the direct impact of their gifts on schools, food banks, health clinics and other faith‑based initiatives that strengthen the fabric of North Texas neighborhoods.
How to participate
All events are free and do not require RSVP, except for the Klyde Warren Park Mixer, which has a $25 ticket price. Online giving is already open on the Giving Day platform, so anyone can donate at any time leading up to Sept. 17. For more information, visit the Communities Foundation of Texas website or follow their social‑media channels.
By gathering locally and supporting charities early, North Texans can help ensure that the 2026 Giving Day surpasses last year’s record, reinforcing the region’s tradition of charitable giving and community solidarity.
Original reporting: Local Profile (DFW) — read the source article.
