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Danielle Suffers From Lymes Disease — Danielle, a wonderful, 23-year old, young woman who just found out that she has been suffering for the last two years with Lymes disease. At first, Danielle didn’t know what was wrong, and went to several doctors who told her she just had flu symptoms, but her symptoms kept getting worse — persistent fatigue; loss of concentration; numbness, tingling, and other odd sensations in her hands, arms, feet and legs, headaches, sleep disturbances and joint pains. She was once a thriving, intelligent and athletic young woman who has been so ill the last two years that she has hardly left her bed.
She found a doctor who specializes in the treatment of Lymes Disease. Unfortunately, Danielle doesn’t have health insurance. Lymes disease, if treated quickly, can be cured with simple antibiotics. Unfortunately, Danielle is at stage 2 or 3 of the disease, and the drug treatment plan will consist of antibiotics and IV drips for several months. It is crucial that she start her treatments immediately. Not treating this disease will cause a lifetime of recurring symptoms.
All donations will go toward payment of the doctor’s fees and medicines to cure her of this terrible disease.
I was so happy to have found MicroGiving.com. It is a resource that reaches out to family and friends. MicroGiving.com is an avenue to hope.
To read more about Danielle please visit: http://www.microgiving.com/profile/ldasaraf
Tags:
Fundraising,
microcharity,
MicroGiving,
Online Fundraising
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Secret Millionaire John Ferber
MicroGiving founder, John Ferber
Our very own John Ferber, founder of MicroGiving, will be starring on ABC’s Secret Millionaire this Sunday, March 27th at 8:00pm / 7:00pm central! The reality television show is a series whereby secret millionaires disguise themselves and venture into impoverished communities only to donate thousands of dollars to unsuspecting recipients at the end of the show.
We did a quick Q&A with John to find out a bit more about his compassionate side…
Q&A with John Ferber, ABC Secret Millionaire
How did you become a Millionaire?
My brother Scott and I sold our company Advertising.com to AOL for $500 million dollars when I was 30 years old. This has afforded me the opportunity to give philanthropically and lend way to my charity organization, The MicroGiving Foundation, www.microgiving.com.
My success has also privileged me the opportunity to participate on ABC’s Secret Millionaire. I hope my involvement on the show will inspire others to get involved too and bless the lives of people in need.
What inspired you to become a philanthropist?
Once the smoke cleared from the company sale, I realized that helping other people made me feel great, while at the same time benefiting others. I’ve since dedicated a good portion of my life trying to figure out ways to help humanity in a grander scale which is why I founded MicroGiving.com– a place where anyone can raise money for anything and give a percent forward to charity or a struggling individual or family in need.
Describe your experience on ABC Secret Millionaire?
Recently I was asked to participate in a documentary style show for ABC’s Secret Millionaire. I decided to leave the comforts of my home and lifestyle for an opportunity to help others on a scale I hadn’t contemplated before. Relinquishing all control over my own life and putting my faith into ABC, I suddenly found myself in the epicenter of the largest homeless population in the USA.
What was it like living on $40 a week?
It was a small sacrifice that gave me a much greater return. The Secret Millionaire show gave me the opportunity of a lifetime to embed myself into the community and find great people doing extraordinary things in their community that completely opened my eyes to the power of hope and the belief that hard work can make a positive change in even the most challenging of circumstances.
Do you have any suggestions or advice for someone who wants to become involved in helping people in need?
Yes! My charity, MicroGiving.com, is a great way to directly help people in need. I created MicroGiving so people could raise money for themselves through friends and family, and give back to others, completing the giving circle! You can learn more at www.microgiving.com.
*We would love to hear from you! Please feel free to share your thoughts on this page!
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Natalie Sando is a MicroGiver whom everyone should know about. She is fundraising to finance stem cell treatment for her hearing loss and has received a flood of support from the moment she launched her campaign. Her fundraising success is a testament to her determined and genuine character, which I believe are essential traits for all fundraisers. I spoke with Natalie to find out a bit more about her story and gather some tips for running a successful campaign.
1. Tell us about your need. Why have you come to MicroGiving?
Since I was a kid, I’ve had hearing loss that degenerates over time. It wasn’t so bad growing up. As a child, it was not as profound as it is today.
I came to Microgiving because when I first got presented with the opportunity for this treatment, I thought, “How in the world am I going to come up with ten grand?” I’m thinking to myself, “Well, my friends and family could help me… maybe I could set up some website or something!” I searched the Internet for charitable websites that would help, but all of them requested some kind of percentage from the money you raised. I figured, “So, I’m going to put myself out there, stretching far and wide to raise ten grand, and this company is going to use my hard work and take ten percent of it. Well, they’re hosting me, I don’t mind I guess…” But I would still be left short of my need amount. Somehow, I came across Microgiving. You guys do what other websites “offered” … but for free. Without reservation, I immediately signed up, sent in my proof, and requested your help, and I am more than amazed with the results so far.
2. You raised over $2000 in just 8 days. How does it feel to see such an outpouring of support? Was this something you were expecting?
I was definitely not expecting this! My treatment is scheduled for January 2011, and I’m still hoping I can reach my goal. It feels awesome that I have so many great people behind me making sure I don’t fall. I am just blessed that everything got set up as smoothly and quickly as it did. The support from people, even “anonymous”, just gives me such a grateful feeling. I am so happy that people are as generous as they are, helping me to achieve my dreams, both financially and emotionally. It just proves that there is good in everyone, and I hope that one day it’ll be my turn to help someone who is in need as well, with a large sum of money (and love)!
3. Have any of the donors or the donation amounts so far surprised you?
For sure. My first donation was from a friend of mine… who, and I’ll admit it, has been a far better friend to me than I have been to him (and he knows it too!). He has always been there for me and there were times when I was unable to be there for him. Throughout our friendship, he has been nothing but understanding, always helpful, and I haven’t even seen him for three years. Even so, he flat out donated $200 for me! I was blown away.
I had another friend donate a large amount and I was surprised as well. She’s only known me throughout half of college, but the impact she has had on my life has surpassed some friends that I have known for over a decade. Before she donated, I told her I needed her heart in this, not her money. I told her I didn’t want her money, but she went ahead and donated anyway. I’m pretty sure I still owe her a birthday present from May! I didn’t forget, you’ll still get it!
My sister, Nineveh, and her husband donated a huge amount. To be honest, I don’t think I would be able to move forward with this treatment without their help. I’m extremely grateful for their donation, as well as many of their friends who have donated for me and don’t really know me at all. That is an amazing feeling.
We can’t forget the ultimate Microgiver, John, for donating to people – people he doesn’t even know, such as myself – and he’s donated to me twice so far. I’m sure that guy goes to bed with butterflies over his head because he must have such a great feeling everyday with all the goodness he has done for people!
4. What steps have you taken since the launch of your request that have driven people to your page and moved them to donate? For example, are you using social networks, emailing your friends and family, writing letters, telling people in person, etc?
I’ve refrained from using social networking sites. I guess I wanted to see how far I could get without them. Mostly, I am emailing/calling my friends and family. I’m also asking them to email their friends and family as well. I believe word of mouth is the biggest form of success one can get. I’m calling people, bugging them to please send it out – and I’m following up. If those closest to you write about you to those closest to them, then the amount of people you can get from just those two levels are a LOT.
5. What tips would give to people in a similar situation that will help them run a more successful campaign?
The biggest tip I could give people is to write more about themselves. Write your story, everyone loves stories. Even when we were children, we wanted stories. People want to know YOU before they randomly donate to you. And always be honest. You want people to read about you and really feel like they know you or you deserve this. I want people to really know why I’m here, know who I am, and the kind of person I want to be, by reading my story.
Also, always follow up. Sometimes it takes a third email for people to “want to check out your page”. I always told people via email or phone, “Make sure you read my ‘About Me’ section!” That way, if they could put themselves in my shoes, they would understand why I needed financial help.
6. How has your experience been of MicroGiving so far?
Microgiving has been such an amazing experience! It’s so easy to give people a direct link to my page, and they tell me that donating has never been easier. I love that. I think the best thing about Microgiving is the fact that you “verify” people to make sure donations are going toward a good reason.
7. Feel free to tell us anything else that you’d like to share in particular.
I just want to thank everyone for all their love, support, and belief in my success. I couldn’t do this treatment without their help.
Thanks everyone!
Natalie has already raised a quarter of her fundraising goal. You can help her make her dream a reality by donating to her campaign here.
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Recently, an interesting character has graced the pages of MicroGiving. His goal is to raise quite an ambitious amount of funds for his soon-to-be, first, official, album release. This character is Eldon Huff — a true veteran of the musician industry and venerable champion of online self-promotion.
I had the privilege of calling his home situated 30 minutes outside of Nashville, which is apparently more rural than I had imagined — we lost the connection a mere five times! But it’s all part and parcel of reaching a true musical genius. And it would seem that perseverance pays… Eldon imparted invaluable advice for aspiring musicians and also those who want to execute a successful fundraising campaign. I am now pleased to present you with the insider on Eldon, his project, and his plans for the upcoming album.
Tell us about Nashville. What’s it like being a musician there? Would you say there is a lot of opportunity for artists in Nashville?
Well, I’ve found its kind of a really good place to network and better your songwriting skills. It’s also where I found myself. I spent my first few years here figuring out how to write a song and how to actually do what I wanted to do. I think most people come to town that way. I wouldn’t say they’re blind or in the dark — they have, maybe, about an inch of an idea of what they want to do. And when they get here, they figure themselves out a little more. At least for me, that’s what its been good for.
Is there a lot of competition there? How does it feel?
Yea, definitely. I’ve heard statistics that say there’s hundreds that come here a day. Competition is pretty nuts. You kind of feel like a needle in a haystack. Fortunately when I moved here, I had already been in and out of town for a couple of years and made some contacts with some heavy hitters. But even so, it took me three years to get my publishing deal. I had to spend pretty much every day writing and getting better at what I did to achieve that.
What’s your best piece advice for other artists trying to climb the industry ladder?
Own as much of your creative content as you can; educate yourself on the music business as much as you can; and don’t think that a major record label is a measure of success because it just isn’t anymore. The old business model is dead in my eyes. I don’t foresee it ever coming back. But the major labels and many aspiring musicians are still holding onto it for whatever reason. They think its the easier route, but its really not.
There’s other ways to do it… there’s Youtube, and Myspace, just to mention a few. Digital distribution is really easy to get now for an independent artist. It’s easy to get your songs out. Keep yourself grounded and engulfed in the new ways and open-minded that you can achieve it without a major label. Stay focused on that consistently and believe in what you do until you succeed.
You seem to have quite an impressive performance track record. Tell me about some of the better shows/gigs you’ve been a part of. For example, you said you’ve had a chance to play with Miley Cyrus?
Yea.. I became pretty close with her dad Billy and his band and knew all those guys pretty well. Billy asked me to come out and open a show for Miley. It was a sold out house, about five or six thousand people. But for me all the shows are great. I dig the big shows in arenas, but my goal as an artist is to get into the theater level places — 2000 or 2500 seat theaters. They’re more intimate.
What’s a typical week for you like? Is it all music, gigs, and recording? Or do you secretly have a stamp collecting hobby or something?
Well my hobby is cooking. I love to cook. I try to cook dinner at home for my wife and two kids as much as I can when I’m home. I love to have people over to the house to cook for them. Other than that, my week is usually going into town spending 2-3 days a week trying to write songs and catching up with my writer buddies and producer friends. There will be times when I’m gone for a couple weeks at a time. But I just try to spend as much time with my wife and kids when I’m at home. Try to be in church when I can. I play golf when I get a chance. I’m a horrible golfer, but I have fun doing it.
When do you anticipate the album will be finished? And how will you go about distributing and promoting it? For example, do you have a tour planned?
The recording is set for January. I hope to have it done by the end of January, or mid February, then start the tour and begin releasing it in March. It will be in stores nationwide, on iTunes, and all of the digital outlets. It’ll also be available on my website. We’re not looking to hit radio with it… we’re going to put it out on the Internet, get some video play, and focus on touring. The market is becoming touring-based anyway for artists. So I really plan to wear the road out after the next three to five years.
As for distribution, there are several independent companies in town that have major distribution. I plan to hook up with one of those companies. They really cater to independent artists. They’ll do videos and release them onto CMT and some of the other new outlets. Although, the album is not really going to be very ‘country’. It’s more Old School/RnB. But as far as where the country audience is now, it’s still something I can market to them. The country market is very broad.
You’ve obviously spent years pitching producers and networking the music industry. What are the ingredients of a successful pitch?
It always goes back to the song. In any genre of music, it has to be a great song with great sound and recording. It can’t be something that sounds like it was recorded in your bathroom or basement with a cassette recorder. You also have to be patient and focused on building true honest relationships overtime. You always have to believe in what you’re pitching. Never pitch anything half-wit. Go the distance when you make a pitch and have your idea nailed to the floor. I think that’s the best advice I could give anybody.
How has your experience of using MicroGiving been so far? What did you like about this approach versus more traditional means of funding?
Well, the traditional means of funding usually involve dealing with a major record label. This means dealing with their control over the creative process, how and when they plan to release the record, how they’re going to promote it, and how much money they’re going to put behind it. A major label spends so much money recording a record. That alone, with the way albums sell these days, makes it almost impossible for the act to be able to recoup to them. And when you don’t recoup to the label, you usually get dumped because you are not making any money for yourself or the label.
Microgiving enables artists to raise the money to take a truly independent route — to fund their albums, their tours, their videos, and own as much of their own content as possible.
I’m also looking forward to being able to donate my ten percent. I’ve been some of the other places on MicroGiving, checking out the folks who have lost their homes, lost their jobs… and I’d like to see those people meet their goals too.
I enjoyed reading your stream on Myspace. You’ve been tweeting about your project almost every day. Do you have any other tips for how to successfully get the word out about a Project?
Video is always very strong. I’ve been doing a weekly video update that I post on Youtube, Facebook, Myspace, and refer my viewers back to my MicroGiving page. I think that will keep people interested.
I’ve also printed up some cards with my name, picture, and MicroGiving URL with the words ‘help me fund my album’. I’ve been giving those out at my shows, giving them out whenever I talk to somebody about it. I’ve found these useful because people have the URL right in front of them and can go home and check it out.
You just have to keep spreading the word. I think I can achieve my goals if I keep my nose to the grindstone.
You mentioned that you love to cook. In fact, you’ve incorporated this into your $5,000 reward:
So when are you going to visit the MicroGiving headquarters in Florida and show us some of your down home cookin’?
Oh, tell me when and I’ll be there!
A special thanks to Eldon for imparting such great advice and offering an insider’s perspective on the state of the music industry.
You can donate to Eldon’s project here. If you too are running a Project, make sure to take note of his campaign approach and try implementing some of his tactics to get your project on the fast track to success.
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On Sept 17-18 I will be racing in an ultra distance triathlon to raise money for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) research.
After much consideration, I came to the conclusion that I could help fundraise for those that can find a cure. I plan to race in a double ironman in Virginia on September 17-18, 2010 to raise money for the CCSVI MS research. Yup, you read that right. It is a race that spans 2 days. A double ironman is a 4.8 mile swim, 224 mile bike, and 52.4 mile run.
Interview with Chuck
- As a coach for triathletes, what personal training advice would you give to individuals interested in using sports (like running the triathlon) to raise money for a cause (like MS)?
-> First, I would advise them to pick a cause that is personal to them. I would also tell them to be prepared to dedicate at least 5 hours a week to the fundraising initiative. For me, it was more than just raising money, it was to raise awareness… Fundraising is/was much harder than I thought it would be. I also advise them to pick and event or goal that challenges them. I completed 2 ironman races last year so using an ironman race or any race shorter did not feel right to use as a fundraiser.
- What made you decide to run the Iron Man for MS, why not something less taxing? An four point eight mile swim, 224 mile bike, and 52.4 mile run is a lot of leg work. Pun intended.
-> MS is such a challenging disease that I felt I had to find an event that was going to challenge me on all levels (mentally, physically, and spiritually), I completed 2 ironman races last year so I was quite confident that I could complete an ironman. When I found the ultra triathlon I knew it was perfect for my fundraising efforts. I can tell you that I have learned more about myself training for this event than I ever thought possible.
- To date, you’ve raised nearly 5k! How did you promote your fundraiser?!
-> I spent 1-2 hours a day on the fundraiser. I emailed friends, family, businesses, newspapers, and TV stations. At least 95% of the people did not respond to my emails or make a donation. It was very hard knowing that people were reading my emails and/or discarding them without donating. The people who I thought would donate did not. The people I did not expect to donate did… The local city newspaper ran two articles for me. The neighborhood newsletter ran a piece as well. Some of my friends posted info on their blogs and facebook pages. I created and sent our fliers. My wife and I presented information about the fundraiser to the Gulf Winds Triathlon Club. I still have a couple more initiatives in the works that could bring in more funds (my college newspaper and a fundraiser at a local restaurant).
- What advice would you give to other people trying to promote their cause?
-> I would tell them to be prepared to try hard and be ready for rejection. Today’s economy makes it exceptionally difficult to fund raise. They should be ready to use every avenue available to them.
You can read more about Chuck’s Racing to cure Multiple Sclerosis fundraiser by visiting his profile: http://www.microgiving.com/profile/chuck
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We like to recognize other organizations in the micro philanthropy sector that share the same mission and vision as MicroGiving.
Citizens Care is a Canadian based non-profit that unites giving circles dedicated to assisting people in need in the lower Mainland of British Columbia.
Individuals help by pooling resources and donating to those locally in need of assistance along with providing referrals of people in need within their community. Citizens-Care.org provides an efficient way for communities in Canada to cooperatively select local individuals, families and groups to which they will donate time, funds or other resources.
MicroGiving and Citizens Care share the philosophy that “a small amount can make a big difference”. Together our mission is to:
- Empower more people to help individuals and families in need by providing an easy online platform that assists those who cannot pay for basic goods, needs or services themselves.
- Personalize the experience of giving by enabling individuals to give directly to people in need, with no middle man.
If you are a Canadian national in need of assistance, or a Canadian based donor interested in joining a giving circle in your community to support people in need– please visit Citizens-Care.org.
Special thanks to Citizens Care and Ted Caine for reaching out, and for their team’s commitment and compassion to serving people in need.
Tags:
citizens care,
giving circles,
micro philanthropy,
people in need
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Three years ago a group of families joined together and started Independence Heights, a grass roots organization dedicated to helping young adults with developmental disabilities to become fully integrated members of the community. Independence Heights is dedicated to improving the future for young adults with developmental disabilities(DD) by helping them to access supported living and employment within their community and in a setting of their choice. They are bringing families together with one common goal, to make their loved one as independent as possible.
What made you decide to put a Charity request on MicroGiving?
I needed a way to raise awareness and funds to help people with developmental disabilities.
How do you feel about being a part of the MicroGiving community?
Being part of microGiving has opened a door for me to meet people who care about others and who are willing to help people in neeed.
How have other members responded to your Charity?
People have been very supportive and encouraging to my organization! I’ve received a very positive response online.
How is MicroGiving different than other online fund raising websites?
Microgiving puts me in touch with people who would not otherwise know about the needs of people with developmental disabilities. I can access a larger pool of people over the internet.
How is MicroGiving different than local (in person) fund raising?
Donors on this site came here to share knowing that even if they can only give $1 it will be appreciated.
How do you feel about the verification level program?
The verification levels create an opportunity for people to give with confidence and know that the money goes directly to cause that they intended it for, not a scammer or to pay overheads and advertising costs to a large charity.
Was it difficult for you to reach the highest and most successful level?
Yes, I had some difficult achieving the highest level.
If you found difficulty please explain why you are (or were) having trouble and what the team did to help you successfully reach the fully verified status.
I couldn’t figure out how to enter things on the website. Thank you Michelle for helping me to get through this process.
Tags:
charity spotlight,
independence heights
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Every now and then we like to get feedback from our outstanding members. MicroGiving would like to acknowledge one of our fantastic recipients, Randy Manaigre for his involvement and support within the MicroGiving community!
1. What made you decide to put a request on MicroGiving?
After years of identifying my medical issues and trying to research a resolution to my challenges, and realizing that the least intrusive medical procedure for me, was Laser(Laser Spine Insititute, Tamapa, Florida, I need financial help and started to research what was out there in the web-world and I found MicroGiving. Being cautious, I researched your site and was impressed and amazed at the entry process and the whole concept.
2. How do you feel about being a part of the MicroGiving community?
Being part of the MicroGiving Community is empowering, especially when you have no means for help.
3. How do the other members make you feel? Have they offered you emotional support or ideas to help you raise funds on your own?
The other members are amazing! The important aspect is, regardless of our needs, we all share the same commonality… we need help.
4. If you had a friend in a similar situation as yours, would you recommend MicroGiving? Why or why not?
I would highly recommend any friend/person in need to MicroGiving because they provide a great way for people in need to acquire assistance. In addition, the verification process is impressive, thus reducing false applications.
5. How is MicroGiving different than other online fund raising websites?
MicroGiving does the background checks, thus giving donors a peace of mind that the donations will be used for a real person in need.
6. How is MicroGiving different than local (in person) fund raising?
MicroGiving connects donors and recipients world-wide, allowing donors to give to anyone from any place in the world. Plus, MicroGiving allows donors to choose exactly who they believe has the greatest need. They present a world without boundaries – making the whole process amazing in helping those in need anywhere. This improves the success of the need being met faster and changes the term “community” to be the whole planet… amazing.
7. MicroGiving is serious about helping only those who truly need help, how do you feel about the verification level program?
I was impressed with the process and documentation to become verified… MicroGiving leaves ‘no stone unturned’ to verify and confirm recipients with real needs.
8. Was it difficult for you to reach the highest and most successful level?
Reaching the highest level does take great effort and requires recipients to provide a lot of supporting documents. However, once those supporting documents are submitted, MicroGiving verifies and confirms the highest level to valid recipients . The effort is well worth it.
8A. If you had difficulty during the verification process, please explain why you are (or were) having trouble and what the team did to help you successfully reach the fully verified status.
In my process of applying to be verified and reaching the highest level – a learning curve was evident on my part. All my questions were answered quickly and in a clear manner. This allowed me to respond with the required documentation via mail/post.
9. Have you visited the forums?
Yes I have visited the forum and have commented to many members, as they have with me.
9A. If yes, what brought you to the forum?
Once again – it is the commonality that we all have; both in finding that we need to reach out for help and supporting each other in this process. Asking for help has always been a challenge for me. I am used to helping/giving, not receiving.
9B. Did the forum meet your expectations?
Yes, the forum met my expectations and more. Members are amazing and the honesty and comments to each other bring us all closer together, regardless of where we live.
10. Are you using the journal to keep donors informed of your progress?
I have used the journal. I sometimes feel that I do not have much to say – my physical condition is what it is and I do not want be perceived as a whiner. I believe in addressing the challenges in my life and moving on. Once my goal is achieved and my surgery is complete, I will have a lot to tell in my journal about the medical process and my improved state of physical health and quality of life.
10A. If yes, do you feel it’s a valuable tool to help donors decide whether or not to give you some help?
I am sure donors like to read the journal, but I also believed that they realize we all have basic activities in daily living that we all must do(regardless of one’s abilities). I think and feel that to write down daily factual information would be too much information – I believe in writing in my journal when something either positive or negative occurs in my life. While it’s important to keep Donors posted about any progress in your life, they do not have time to read excessive information..keep it simple.
10B. If no, what do you think would make a good way to keep donors informed of your progress?
The journal is fine as it is, donors can read about my progress. I would not change anything. Unless you wanted to ad a private section that Donors could submit to and recipients could only access..sort of a one to one private avenue for this new connection to each other.
Thank you John, Michelle and the MicroGiving Team.
Yours truly,
Randy Manaigre
Tags:
recipient spotlight,
Spotlight
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Mallory Clark
Mallory Clark was diagnosed with severe epilepsy and will undergo brain surgery by the end of the year. Staci Davis joined MicroGiving on behalf of her best friend Mallory in an effort to raise money for her family, as the procedure will cost them thousands of dollars for which they cannot afford. Unfortunately for the Clark family, Mallory’s insurance company refuses to pay the cost of the treatment as her epilepsy is a pre-existing condition.
Mallory continues to experience traumatic seizures which are significantly affecting her quality of life. She has at least one grand mal seizure a week and everyday continues to experience mini seizures which affect her speech and comprehension. She is now unable to drive, take a shower, sleep properly, or enjoy what every young person deserves to enjoy such as many extracurricular activities like sports, the movies and theme parks. Your support will keep Mallory’s family afloat as they are already in debt with Mallory’s previous medical expenses.
“The Clark’s lost their home over a year ago because of all the bills and being unable to make their house payments. They had to file bankruptcy and now have to rent a small home. If I can help make their lives even a little bit better by raising a small amount of money for them… my effort here will be worthwhile. Thank you sincerely in advance” -Staci Davis
All donations raised will go directly to the Clark family and help Mallory restore her life and youth again.
Tags:
mallory clark,
Spotlight
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MicroGiving would like to recognize the Gorzkowski family. They are new to the Microgiving so be sure to drop by their profile and give them a warm welcome!
Paul is the father of two children (sons) ages 12 and 14. Along with his wife, the four live in a 1974 two bedroom single wide trailer. After Paul and his wife and lost their jobs in 2008 due to the economy, whey were unable to get the money to pay to fix the leaking roof, the rotting floors and drafty windows of their home.
Paul’s children share an 8 foot by 8 foot bedroom just big enough for a set of bunk beds. Although they receive a little assistance from Social Services, it does not cover home repairs.
“Before my wife and I lost our jobs, we had financed a vehicle, which has now demolished our credit ratings and in return has caused us the burden of not being able to apply for loans.”
Please welcome Paul and his family. MicroGiving is proud of the support that is shared among our community!
Tags:
gorzkowski story
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Help Bambi!
Once upon a time there was a sweet little Italian greyhound by which they called BambiRoo. From the early beginnings, little BambiRoo had a troublesome puppihood. You see, Bambi had a small accident one day at the puppy pet shop. Too much frolic and play with the other puppies led to the injury of poor little Bambi’s foot! The injury could have quite naturally been remedied with a band aid and a kiss or two. However the evil pet shop owners chose to ignore Bambi’s injury as the price of band aids and kisses is too expensive these days.
One afternoon a kind and loving family came into the evil pet shop and fell in love with BambiRoo at first site. Unbeknown of Bambi’s injury, arrangements were made and little BambiRoo was warmly introduced to her brand new home.
Bambi loved her new home! In fact, she was elated to run free, chase cats, and eat socks! Back at the evil pet shop she was unable to do these wonderful things from the confinements of her cage.
However, it wasn’t long before Bambi’s injury worsened. Flabbergasted, her loving caretakers took little Bambi to the veterinarian. Here the awful truth finally came to light! Bambi’s injury occurred weeks prior to her purchase from the pet store!
Upset by this news (and rightly so), Bambi’s owners approached the pet store and asked them kindly to compensate for the pricey veterinarian treatment. To much dismay however the pet shop owners would have no part – leaving Bambi’s owners in a terrible financial hick up.
So goes the story of poor little BambiRoo! But the story doesn’t end, with your loving kindness you can help Bambi continue to get the treatment she deserved a long time ago!
Tags:
Spotlight
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Last week MicroGiving proudly spotlighted our top featured Recipient and Donor for the month of June. We would like to thank all of you who have shared kind words of support and encouragement! Today, we’re proud to announce our spotlight Charity for the month!
1. What does your Charity fundraiser support?
We are a non-profit organization that works with victims of domestic violence. The latest research shows that one out of every three women will be involved in an abusive relationship at some time in her life. The effects of domestic violence touch every aspect of society. The emotional, mental, and spiritual scars–the ones that you don’t see–last much longer and take years to heal; if they ever do. Over 131 lives were taken last year in the state of North Carolina as a result of domestic violence. Boys who witness domestic violence are twice as likely to abuse their own partners and children when they become adults. The cost of intimate partner violence exceeds $5.8 BILLION per year, $4.1 billion of which is for direct medical and mental health services. When you take into consideration that many of these people are uninsured or under insured, think of the taxpayer burden this creates! We must break the cycle of abuse and violence and make generational change.
2. How did you hear about MicroGiving?
I heard about Microgiving through a Google search while looking for ways to raise money for the mission. We are a new organization, although we have been working in the community for over 2 years, we just received our 501(c)(3) status in October. As you know, it is very difficult for new non-profits to receive funds in the current economic climate.
3. What is so great about online fundraising?
Online fundraising has the ability to reach many people and gives donors a convenient and safe way to make their contributions. Although I haven’t raised any funds yet using Microgiving, I have met some wonderful people and have been able to share information about domestic violence that may impact someones life in a way that will allow them to make positive changes. That is my only goal, to make a positive impact on someone’s life.
Blessings,
Ramona, RN, FCN
Faith Community Nurse
The S.O.S. Mission
Would you like your profile to be featured on our blog? Get out there and be active on the MicroGiving site! Share your support to others in the forum, voice your feedback on MicroGiving’s blog, and drop by other member’s profiles and leave them a word of encouragement!
Tags:
Explore,
MicroGiving
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Make A Difference. Give Online.
This week MicroGiving will be spotlighting three of our top members on our blog. Thanks to all of you who left encouraging feedback on our previous post where we shed the spotlight on last month’s featured recipient!
Today MicroGiving would like to acknowledge Rayhawk, our featured donor for the month of June! We felt Rayhawk deserved the spotlight for her exemplary charitable contribution last month!
For those of you who follow our blog regularly you may recall our previous post How To Use Micro Charity To Make A Macro Difference. Here we highlighted the importance of micro charity and the tremendous impact a small donation can make. Special thanks to Rayhawk for her compassion to help others, and for being an example in our community!
Why do you give online?
I gave as a child and never knew why. I would get myself into trouble giving away things my mother bought me to those who needed it more, but I felt the risk was worth it. When I was old enough to understand my own feelings I realized giving was simply natural. The entire earth is giving. The earth gives us vegetation, mothers give birth to children, animals bring prey back to share with their communities so all can eat. Even solitary animals leave the rest for scavengers, herds migrate and graze together so all can eat; giving, sharing, helping each other is simply natural. It just makes sense that all living beings should only take what they need and give all else to those who do not have enough. I’m simply doing my part – it’s natural, and if I didn’t do it I would not feel like a part of the earth.
How does it feel to give online and help someone in need?
It feels like I truly belong as a living being on earth. Helping another brings you together with that person and sometimes their family. You walk together for a little while and when they reach their goal you share in that relief, if they don’t reach it you share in that sorrow too. I give as much as I can so I can share in the relief of having met a goal because I know how horrible it feels to stumble and fall…even worse if you fall alone with nobody there to care.
What makes Microgiving unique and special to you?
Identification is a requirement on MicroGiving as well as verification of need. I like screening processes that discourage scamming. I prefer to get to know the recipients who have provided ID verification and will discuss their situation. I prefer to evaluate the evidence myself and MicroGiving has the blog, bookmark and email feature that allows me to learn about the recipient by asking questions. That personal communication allows me to make an informed decision.
I don’t donate to a profile or application, I donate to the person and the tools that MicroGiving provides allows you to know the person behind the profile.
Other sites require no ID verification at all, some have no blog or email feature to allow you to communicate with the recipient and ask questions. MicroGiving has it all and I feel that what I have to share is going to someone who truly does need it and it’s not being used irresponsibly.
Stay tuned this week as we reveal our featured Charity! And don’t forget, online giving is for everyone!
Tags:
donor,
MicroGiving
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Give Online To A Family In Need!
MicroGiving’s Explore page has now moved to our blog! For those of you who are not aware, every month MicroGiving spotlights one Donor, Recipient and Charity to feature on our site. What makes these members special? They’ve been exceptionally involved in our community and we feel they deserve a little praise and laudation!
This month our shining Recipient spotlight goes to MJ! See what she has to say about MicroGiving…
What is your MicroGiving username?
My username is MJ
How long have you been a member?
I’ve been a member for about 1 year now
How did you learn about MicroGiving? (ie. friend, family, internet, advertisement, etc.)
I learned about MicroGiving through searching the Internet in hope to find help
How often do you visit the MicroGiving site?
I visit MicroGiving almost every day
What makes MicroGiving unique to you?
The members truly care and are willing to help those in need.
What advice would you give to new Recipient members?
Be a part of the communtiy! Reach out and get to know those who are a part of the family. Know that people do care for those who are in need.
Do you participate in MicroGiving’s forum discussions? If so, how often and which ones do you visit?
I usually visit the forums as often as I can, because I like to see what is going on in the lives of other people in the community. I like to hear when someone is anxious to tell of good news, or those who have questions. I just like to peek into peoples lives to see what exciting things are happening.
Do you read MicroGiving’s blog? If so, what topics do you enjoy reading and what would you like to read more about?
This past month I have been sick and not able to read the blogs, but they are great and full of wonderful information to help in every day life. I wouldn’t change anything because I believe that Microgiving is reaching many people and doing a fantastic job!
What MicroGiving feature or service has been the most helpful to you and why?
Having a family to come to and share the good and bad of life. To see that many care! The excitement to read an email that a donation has been given not only to myself, but to others on this site! To feel pain when those here hurt and to share joy when good news is there to share. This is a family of sharing!
Has your life changed since you began visitiing the MicroGiving site? If so, in what way?
I came here truly thinking no one out there cared that I was alone in my struggles. Through MicroGiving I realized that we are all in this together and we each become stronger with the support of one another. I would recommend this site to anyone who is in need or has the ability to share with others. There are many who care and I thank Microgiving for being there for me!
Best regards to MJ, be sure to drop by her profile page this week and leave a few words of encouragement. Don’t forget to stay tuned this week for more featured profiles, and most importantly give online to a family in need!
Sincerely,
The MicroGiving Team
Tags:
MicroGiving
