The #GivingTuesday Puerto Rico movement continues to grow as more artists step up to give back to the community. Renowned artist Zion has joined the cause by donating canvases, paint, and brushes to Fundación Stefano, an organisation dedicated to promoting mental health. His gesture adds to a growing list of artists - Jowell & Randy, Gale, Rawayana, and Jon Z - who recently turned their eccentric backstage 'riders' into a viral campaign raising awareness about the importance of altruism.
The movement gained media attention when artists revealed their extravagant backstage requests - ranging from absurd amounts of food to musical instruments. What initially seemed like excessive demands quickly turned into a call to action, encouraging Puerto Ricans to support non-profit organisations as part of the #GivingTuesday Puerto Rico campaign.
The concept, a creative collaboration between de la Cruz Ogilvy and Culture Create, sparked conversation across local media and social platforms, redirecting the public’s attention toward a greater purpose. Zion’s contribution, alongside the creative efforts of Jowell & Randy, Gale, Rawayana, and Jon Z, ensures that this eighth edition of Giving Tuesday in Puerto Rico, to be celebrated on December 3rd, will leave a lasting impact on communities across the island.
“As artists, we ask for whatever we want because we have our requirements. We asked for 1,500 pounds of dog and cat food, but it’s to donate to Save a Sato through the Giving Tuesday movement. Several artists have joined in, and it’s a positive initiative from us. Anyone who wants to join and donate can choose any foundation - what matters is giving,” said Jowell on social media, clarifying the intent behind their campaign.
Since its launch in Puerto Rico in 2017, #GivingTuesdayPR has grown exponentially as a platform that amplifies the needs of local organisations while encouraging engagement from communities and businesses. In 2023, the movement raised over $1.7 million, supporting projects in areas such as animal welfare, the arts, health, and social programs. This year, with the involvement of public figures like Jowell & Randy, Gale, Zion, Rawayana, and Jon Z, the campaign is expected to reach even more people.
Blamilsa Corujo, local leader of #GivingTuesdayPR, emphasized the importance of these efforts, “Creative actions like this help spotlight the crucial work our organizations are doing. We invite everyone - from artists and individuals to corporations—to join the movement and make a difference.”
Founded in 2012, Giving Tuesday was created to counter the consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday by highlighting the importance of giving and supporting communities in need. More than a single day, the movement has inspired millions around the world to engage in acts of kindness and philanthropy throughout the year.
In Puerto Rico, this movement represents hope and tangible support for hundreds of organisations working every day for the island’s well-being. Jowell, Randy, Gale, Rawayana, and Jon Z have shown how even something as simple as a “rider” can become a vehicle for generosity.