The Rise of Online Giving

The Internet has allowed people to make their lives easier in different ways. One of these ways is through giving online. There is a rise in online giving because more people have started to use apps through their mobile devices. 

Websites that Connect Communities 

There is a bevy of websites that connect people to those that may be in need. Many are non- profit organization websites. A common request for giving occurs when someone does not have money to bury a loved one. There are websites that allow people to find different types of philanthropy. The most popular website for raising funds is GoFundMe. Online campaigns are often designed to leverage social media to promote charitable giving. 

Religious Organizations 

There is a rise in the development of online charity by religious organizations. A lot of people utilize the internet to view live sermons and give to the churches, temples, mosques … etc. they attend. There are also people that utilize apps and text messages to give online even when they are physically attending a religious event. This makes the transaction easier, and people often prefer this type of giving because they have a record of it. 

Social Media Messages 

It is not uncommon for someone to urge others to give towards a cause that they are passionate about on their birthday or in memory of a loved one. Social media is a useful tool in spreading the word about the charity. There are a lot of people that donate to charities and nonprofit organizations to be part of a bigger community that shares similar views and interests. The ability to give online makes the process quick and easy. 

The Ease of Online Giving 

The rise in online giving is attributable to the mere fact that people do not have to take a lot of time giving thought to the process of giving. They can give without spending a lot of time in the delivery of their charitable contribution. There are ways to give through apps that may only require a phone number or an email. Consumers like the simplicity of online giving, which is a major reason why the concept is growing.

Research Before You Donate 

While online giving is on the rise, so are the scams. We have all heard stories of fake online charities or fundraisers where the money raised was misused or stolen. Before you give to an online charity, take time to do your due diligence. Research the charity and/or the GoFundMe account. If the charity wants you to donate via a gift card, cash or wire transfer, do not do it. You should pay via a reputable payment service, such as PayPal or Venmo. Or, pay via credit card or check, where you can easily stop payment. Most of all, be sure you know where your money is going. The charity must be transparent in how their donations are received and allocated. Remember it is better to give than receive!

Originally published at andrewelsoffer.com on March 2, 2020.