There are people who have the capacity to help others on a daily basis. Some offer their physical skills while others share what extra money they have in their pockets. The sense of philanthropy is innate in almost every individual. Its practice simply depends on whether or not an opportunity and capacity to help is available.
The Concept
Philanthropy is a concept that has been around for centuries. But the efforts behind traditional charity have been taken over by a modern-day concept – crowdsourcing. Over the past years, this has turned into one of the most common, and most effective, ways of raising funds for a variety of causes.
The Boom
With the boom of the digital age came a ton of possibilities including easier and more efficient ways of giving back to the community. More and more people are relying on crowdsourcing platforms these days to help those who are in need. Armed with an excellent pitch and a thriving social network, it is possible to raise a significant amount of money in no time flat. The best part is that via online fundraising, the fundraiser can reach a wider donor network without any hassle.
Fundraising Option
Crowdfunding is a viable fundraising option. As it allows ordinary people, non-profits, and communities to generate funds for different causes, it can be expected that its popularity will continue to rise over time. What sets it apart from the fundraising activities of large foundations is that there is no need for strategic donor targeting or drafting generation reports. Simply choose a platform, publish a pitch, set a goal, and you’re all set.
Raising Funds
Raising funds online is rather informal but efficient. Most of the time, pitches are also crafted to trigger the emotions of potential donors or people who can contribute something as small as a dollar to hundreds or thousands if they wish. For example, there have been crowdfunding efforts for international tragedies like the ones affecting Japan and Haiti. A lot of people care about these events. By pulling at their heartstrings, fund raisers were able to generate a massive amount of donations over a small period of time.
International
Although there are pitches that are not covered by international news networks or affect many people emotionally, these still succeed in raising funds for worthy causes. It may be something as simple as helping someone graduate from school or getting someone the medical treatment that he requires. It is for everybody to contribute to and promote.
Finest
This is philanthropy at its finest because people can help not only by making donations but also by sharing links to the pitches on their personal networks. Based on research done on these platforms, more than 50% of those who see pitches tend to donate regardless if they know the beneficiary or not. This is quite admirable and shows how an easy-to-use and easily understandable concept can influence people to become more charitable day in and day out.
Even if there are mixed reviews as to the value and effectiveness of modern-day crowdfunding, there is no discounting the fact that its ability to target different types of people is what makes it an effective fundraising alternative.