Growing impact through Southern New Mexico Giving Day

Southern New Mexico has always been defined not just by its beautiful deserts, mountains, and skies, but by its people, neighbors who show up, lend a hand, and care for one another. That spirit is at the heart of Southern New Mexico Giving Day, now in its seventh year, and it carries even more exciting possibility in 2026.

On April 24, communities across 12 counties will come together for a 24-hour celebration of generosity, filled with energy, connection, and shared purpose.

Hosted jointly for the first time by the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico and the Gila Community Foundation, this year reflects both how far we’ve come and the excitement of what’s ahead.

It is also powered by collaboration, supported by a dedicated committee of local partners and nonprofits, including the Casa de Peregrinos, Las Cruces Green Chamber of Commerce, and Singing Out Las Cruces, alongside the long-standing partnership with United Way of Southwest New Mexico, that continues to help expand the reach and impact of this effort.

Southern New Mexico Giving Day has grown into more than a single day. Early giving begins April 13, giving donors more time to engage and nonprofits more opportunities to share their stories. And this year, we’re celebrating with two in-person celebrations.

One event will take place on April 18 in Silver City with the GCF, and on April 24 at the CFSNM, where a food truck giveback will bring people together in a spirit of fun, food, and generosity.

At its core, this day is about possibility. At Your CFSNM, our mission is to serve as a community resource, connect donors to needs, and support charitable organizations in their work. Our vision is a community connected to the resources it needs to thrive. Southern New Mexico Giving Day brings that mission to life, working with partners and donors to support organizations across education, healthcare, animal welfare, environmental conservation, the arts, efforts addressing food insecurity, and more. It’s a chance for everyone to take part and to give in a way that feels meaningful.

This impact is amplified through partnership and donor support. Our long-standing collaboration with UWSWNM, alongside the GCF, reflects the best of what can happen when organizations come together with a shared vision. This year is already a reason to celebrate.

A total of 115 nonprofit organizations will receive matching funds made possible by CFSNM, GCF, and UWSWNM, expanding the impact of every gift and building momentum across the region. It’s a powerful reminder that when we give together, we go further, and that even small acts of generosity, multiplied across communities, create lasting change.

Southern New Mexico Giving Day also takes place during Volunteer Appreciation Week, a fitting backdrop for a celebration that honors all the ways people give, through time, talent, and treasure. Every act of generosity counts, and every contribution helps shape a stronger, more vibrant community.

Southern New Mexico Giving Day is, at its heart, a celebration of generosity, connection, and the incredible nonprofits that make this region thrive. As we mark this seventh year, we invite everyone to be part of it. Give where you live, celebrate what we share in community, and join us in building an even brighter future for Southern New Mexico.

For more information on how you can make a difference, visit https://www.southernnewmexicogivingday.org/.

Dr. Terra V. Winter is the president & CEO of Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico. Learn more by emailing info@cfsnm.org or calling 575-521-4794.