Raise Money Online With MicroGiving

The recent success of people using websites to raise money online has caused a dramatic rise in programs and companies that promise extravagant results for any project or cause that wishes to raise funds.  However, one must be careful when choosing how to go about the planning and execution of these fundraisers as some sites charge fees – up front as well as hidden fees – that can take a large percentage out of the hard work put into the fundraiser.

Using MicroGiving to Raise Money Online

With MicroGiving, however, the efforts put forth by the site do not take away from a person’s charity, event, project or cause.  The site exists as a peer-to-peer platform that fosters relationships between those in need and those who are able to contribute.  It is one of the few websites that encourages micro loans as well as crowdfunding to help those in need.

The needs of the fundraisers reach across many fields and can be arranged by groups or individuals.  One does not have to be a non-profit organization to raise money online for a certain charity.  Many post pages are for help with artistic projects while others reach out to receive a helping hand during a time of financial or medical hardship.

Creating Fundraising Networks

It is relatively easy to create a fundraising network via MicroGiving.  In fact, MicroGiving was designed specifically to help people create an interpersonal system of raising money through a person-to-person or donor to recipient connection.  Since 2007, MicroGiving has helped numerous people, communities and charitable organizations raise funds necessary for a wide variety of projects.

Fundraising Through Interpersonal Contacts

Once a person or group has developed a fundraising campaign, MicroGiving makes it easy to blast the information to personal and professional contacts via email and social networking sites.  From those locations, the person or group raising the funds can ask to have the information forwarded to people that may be willing and able to help.

In addition to receiving donations, fundraisers should also consider the option of applying for micro loans or micro credit.  There are many different opportunities for receiving these loans from various sources.  The details on obtaining micro loans and/or micro credit will depend solely upon the nature of the project as well as the requirements of the lender/grantor.

When creating a fundraiser, one should remember to state clearly the project needs and the amount funded so that there is the best possible chance of raising necessary funds.  When a project is funded, a group or individual may also consider “paying it forward” by donating to another cause that is advertised on the site.

Raise Money Online for Every Purpose

Finding new and interesting ways to raise money online can be a challenge as well as an adventure.  There are many resources available to help gather ideas, execute the fundraising effort and to spread the word.  Using an online resource gives the fundraiser the opportunity to reach more people than ever before.  It also means that when the fundraiser is in a position to give back, there are resources to help do that as well.

Everyone Can Raise Money

The concept of “paying it forward” is not a new one.  It is born out of the Golden Rule of “do unto others.”  If someone is able to support your particular request, whether it is for a charity, personal need or other cause, it would be nice to be able to support those people in return should the need arise.

A fundraiser website promotes giving for many different kinds of projects such as artistic pursuits, medical needs, housing assistance and vehicle assistance.  There are no limits to the type of cause a person can promote or to the amount of money that may be raised.

If you have a particular cause or need, be sure to read the terms and conditions on the site to ensure that you are eligible.  It is simple to sign up and get started.  Soon you could be on your way to seeing your dream come true.

Online Fundraising Websites

Individuals and organizations all over the world have turned to online fundraising as a way to benefit their charities, schools, churches and personal needs.  Raising money online is much simpler than holding a traditional event because it takes less work overall, reaches many more people, and actually involves fewer people.  Supporters of the cause can simply log on and go to a specific website to donate to the charity without having to get into their cars, brave inclement weather or disrupt their busy work days or precious days off.

Online Fundraising Tools Make Events Easier

Online fundraising has also become increasingly popular because of the vast number of people that can be reached quickly and easily.  It seems that nearly everyone we know is connected to the internet in one way or another or knows someone who is connected and, therefore, can get access.

The websites promoting online fundraising vary by type of fundraiser, fees charge and services provided.  It is best to research these individual sites for customer satisfaction, retention rate, and to see if the site offers the services your organization needs.

There are dozens of sites to choose from and each will help to design and execute a fundraiser.  However, it is important to know what the website requires from you and what it is willing to provide.  Most will charge a nominal fee for their work.  It may range from 2-10%, depending on specific criteria.

Britney Asks People to Donate Online

Britney Spears has asked fans and supporters to donate online, namely the St. Bernard Project.  The St. Bernard Project is working alongside the United Way to help people in the New Orleans area and Spears was recently named as a charity ambassador.

“It’s time to bring families back home to New Orleans” she tweeted today.  “Join the @Stbernardproj with me & help rebuild lives.”

Give to Charity

Spears posted the following on her FirstGiving.com page: “Your donation today will help St. Bernard Project (SBP) get families home and help rebuild the New Orleans area.  You can be a part of the rebirth of New Orleans and have a significant impact on helping families finally return home almost 6 years after Hurricane Katrina.”

The St. Bernard Project was launched in 2006 by Zack Rosenberg and Liz McCartney.  To date the organization has been able to help more than 350 families move back into their homes after the catastrophes surrounding hurricanes Katrina and Rita.  There are still approximately 200 families living in FEMA trailers while thousands of others reside in temporary housing.

In order to carry out this mission successfully, the St. Bernard Project has founded a Volunteer Driven Rebuilding Program, which is able to rebuild homes in approximately 12 weeks of volunteer labor with around $15,000 in building supplies.  It has also established a Good Work Good Pay (GWGP) Program, an Opportunity Housing Program and a Center for Wellness and Mental Health. Britney Spears is urging those wishing to make a contribution to donate online.

Alzheimer’s Association Micro Donations

In support of micro donations to the Alzheimer’s Association, Patrick Dempsey, TV and movie star, is auctioning off a date at the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Micro donations to the charity will help to support the organization while the highest bidder in the auction will get the chance to see Patrick up close and personal at the raceway. The winner will receive paddock and pit passes, a guided tour of the raceway and signed memorabilia. The event will take place on July 9^th.

Patrick Dempsey is one of Hollywood’s most successful actors. Patrick has been in films and televeision since the 1980s and is perhaps most well know for his role as brain surgeon Derek Shepherd aka Dr. McDreamy on ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy. Dempsey has made many movies including known to many as Dr. McDreamy. In addition, he continues to win us over on the big screen in popular films such as Enchanted, Can’t Buy Me Love, Made of Honor, and the soon to be released Flypaper and Transformers: Dark of the Moon.

Dempsey fell in love with racing many years ago. His passion has enabled him to drive the pace car for the Indianapolis 500, Tecate SCORE Baja 1000, and the Rolex 24 at Daytona.

Making a Micro Donation

Bids on the auction will be accepted until March 21. People wishing to make a donation can donate online through the website for CharityFolks.com. As a micro donations charity, the Alzheimer’s Association hopes to educate and fund research projects to find a cure for the disease.

Celebrity Cricket Match Offers Emergency Financial Help

Emergency Financial Help News: A celebrity cricket match was held at the Basin Reserve in Wellington yesterday to raise money for the victims of the devastating earthquake that occurred in Christchurch, New Zealand last month.

NZ Prime Minister John Key joined in the fun against Shane Warne, Australian cricket legend. New Zealand came out in full force with a team of sporting heroes and a gaggle of hobbits. The event was a smashing success, raising NZ$500,000 to be donated for emergency financial help.

The game was umpired by Mark Hadlow and Martin Freeman, who will be starring in Peter Jackson’s upcoming adaption of The Hobbit, plus several members of All Blacks. Also participating in the game were coaches James Nesbitt and Russell Crowe. Ian McKellen was also present on the scene, graciously donating his time.

“The principal message is that New Zealanders, from all walks of life and wherever they are in the world, are 100 per cent behind the people of Canterbury and the city of Christchurch,” said Russell Crowe.

There are still many volunteer opportunities and ways to donate online for those that wish to help. Donors should contact the Salvation Army or the Red Cross.

What Will The Emergency Financial Assistance Go Toward?

The funds raised for the victims of the earthquake will go a long way in providing assistance for those in need. Included is money for housing, food, water, clothing and items necessary to start rebuilding the region and the peoples’ lives. Thousands of people are still waiting in emergency shelters and will be relying on emergency financial help.

FACE Africa Helping Poor People – Whitney Port Visits Stricken Region

On March 26th FACE Africa will be helping poor people of Africa by holding its annual Clean Water Benefit Gala.  The event, which will take place at The Taj Boston, will honor Marcus Samuelsson.  The event will also feature special guests Whitney Port and Dikembe Mutombo.

According to FACE Africa, one of many African humanitarian relief organizations, the charity “connects and collaborates with individuals and organizations doing life-changing work around the world to raise awareness and help transform impoverished communities in Liberia and Sierra Leone.”  Their goal is to “rebuild and improve communities that were impacted during years of civil unrest in Liberia and Sierra Leone by providing access to clean water and sanitation, education and training, health and nutritional programs, and empowering women and girls.”

The evening’s special guest of honor, author and chef Marcus Samuelsson, has been involved in relief organizations for more than a decade, working as a UNICEF Ambassador since 2000.

Celebrity Volunteering Opportunities

Reality TV star and actress Whitney Port recently took a trip to Africa to better understand what volunteers face when they agree to help agencies like FACE Africa and UNICEF.  Last year Ms. Port visited Liberia with a team from FACE Africa to become educated on the issues the people face day to day.  Like Port, Dikembe Mutombo, founder of the Dikembe Mutombo Foundation, has put his time and energy to good use by raising awareness about the plight of the people in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

As these countries are in dire need of help, there are always open opportunities for helping poor people.  Those wishing to help with the individual plight of others can visit Microgiving to contribute with online donations.

Jude Law Helps Non Profit Charity Organizations With Idea Funding

Wizard Jeans has carried out some unique idea funding to raise money for non profit charity organizations.  The company has paired up with the actor Jude Law, who was asked to decorate a pair of jeans to go up for auction.

The UK-based jeans company spokesperson, Sally Allen elaborates: “Jude kindly consented to paint his right hand with black textile ink and slap it on the left cheek of the jeans to produce this unique and fun piece of fashion.  We sincerely hope the jeans will raise a substantial sum for the benefit of the charity.”

The charity that will benefit from Law’s contribution is Macmillan Cancer Support.

Other Non Profit Charity Organizations Benefit from Idea Funding

Wizard Jeans is not a newcomer to raising funds for charity organizations.  The company is preparing for another upcoming charity event in April to give to charity.  This time the fortunate recipient is the Los Angeles Children’s Hospital.

The charity auctions are set to run through the end of April so supporters will have ample time to donate online.  In this way Wizard Jeans is creating excellent opportunities to help charities through donations.  Of course, there will also be many people bidding on celebrity jeans, which have been autographed by 100 notable celebrities. The jeans will be going up for auction as part of the idea funding and will see the clothing’s proceeds going to the Los Angeles Children’s Hospital; they are expected to raise a substantial amount for the cause.

Personal Micro Loans – Oxfam Congratulates Colin Firth

Many agencies are also provide personal micro loans, in addition to donating to specific causes. To help people in need get back on their feet. One agency that is well known for emergency financial assistance and relief for impoverished people is Oxfam.

Oxfam dedicated a few minutes today to congratulate one of its long time ambassadors, Colin Firth, on his Oscar win for his role in The King’s Speech.

Academy Award-Winning Actor, Firth Praised for Both Career and Charity Accomplishments

Oxfam congratulated Colin Firth – a major ambassador for the chatty – on his recent successes year, which saw the actor win a Golden Globe, BAFTA and Screen Actors Guild Award. In his latest movie, Firth portrays King George VI, who suffered from a speech impediment during his time as monarch of Britain.

Oxfam International Director Jeremy Hobbs said: “We are delighted to see Colin’s talent and achievements being recognized and applauded by his peers in the film industry, as well as enjoyed by audiences across the globe. Colin may be a huge star and a busy actor, but he also finds the time to be an extremely hard-working ambassador for Oxfam. He’s a sincere and dedicated champion for poor people, who puts a lot of energy and passion into campaigning, fundraising and advocacy work.”

How to Personally Provide Online Micro Loans

If you are interested helping people by offering a micro loan, consider donating personal micro loans to the members of Microgiving and help someone in need today.

Make a Donation to Go Red for Women – Cheryl Hines

Actress, Cheryl Hines is asking people to make a donation to a charity that has become close to her heart. The spokesperson for the Go Red for Women movement, Hines, who is famous for her role on Larry David’s hit show “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” has realized how important it is to raise awareness and support for the number one killer of women in America – heart disease. Hines kicked off a campaign for the charity in New York where she appeared on the Today Show to talk about her new position in the organization. According to Hines, she only became fully informed about heart disease after her father suffered a major heart attack. Hines’ father survived but it was clear that changes needed to be made. Since then, Hines has dedicated her time striving to help people learn about this dreaded and often preventable disease.

Donate Today!

Go Red for Women is just like every charity in that it needs funding to support its work. People that donate online can certainly make a difference, and there are also volunteer opportunities to help spread the word. The organization can teach volunteers how to help people with their battle against heart disease. Minor changes in diet and exercise can make all the difference, as can giving up smoking, alcohol and other harmful substances. Hines talks about her father’s conviction to stop smoking after his open heart surgery, saying that it’s worth giving up any habit in order to live.

To make a donation, click on the link or go to the Go Red for Women movement website.

Ed Norton Actor and Philanthropist Extraordinaire Makes It Fun to Donate Online

Actor and long-time philanthropist Ed Norton has made it fun to donate online with his new website Crowdrise.  Crowdrise has been described as a social networking site that allows micro lending and donations to thousands of charities and community projects online.  Norton lives by the saying, “Contribute. Engage. Participate. Cynicism and apathy are poisons to the spirit.”

Norton was Long-Involved in Philanthropy Before He Chose to Donate Online

Norton lives by those words as he could hardly be described as a cynic or apathetic; his dedication to helping others demonstrates a man who has long contributed, engaged and participated.  While at Yale, Norton began the Middle East Peacekeepers Fund; he provided $100,000 to help people create a travel scholarship program for students to study in the Middle East.  Since 1994, Norton has been on the board of trustees for Enterprise Community Partners (ECP).  ECP is a non-profit organization established by Norton’s grandfather, James Rouse, dedicated to providing affordable housing across the US.  ECP has worked across 250 cities in the US and to date, has provided over 100,000 homes.

In early 2003, Norton struck a deal with BP Solar to provide free home solar systems to low-income LA residents each time a celebrity buys a system; these solar systems completely eradicate electric bills for the homeowner.   By the end of 2003, BP donated 25 systems in LA; they expanded the program in 2004 and it has since resulted in the Low-Income Solar Consortium.  Norton’s other charities have included the Signature Theater Company, Nature’s Conservancy Great Yunnan River and too many others to list.

How You Can Donate Online and Make a Difference in the Lives of Others

Microgiving applauds Ed Norton’s long history of philanthropy and his success at making it easier for others to help people and donate online.  Like Mr. Norton and Crowdrise, Microgiving.com works through the generosity and participation of donors.  If you would like to donate online – or you might benefit from our assistance as a recipient – please register with our website.

Disaster Response Symposium Taking Place in Amarillo

Emergency workers across Oklahoma and Texas have met to discuss disaster response in the 2nd Decision and Support Symposium.

The event, which is taking place at Polk Street Business & Industry Center at Amarillo College, has drawn many officials to the city to discuss the issue of emergency disaster response.

This year’s event is being hosted by Potter-Randall Office of Emergency Management and the Weather Service, and has seen personnel from departments such as fire, military, police, county leadership and school districts discuss ways in which to further support the community.

According to Roland Nunez, a senior forecaster for Amarillo’s National Weather Service, the aim is to “build better relationships with the decision-support community”.

He also commented that the events aim to build a foundation for new disaster response services, noting: “How do we better connect with folks and what they’re needing?”

While the event is not open to the public, the gathering will allow the various organizations to hear stories and issues direct from the mouths of those directly involved, and “check the pulse of what they’re needing”.

One of the main events on show is a simulation of a disaster playing out, which shows how officials respond in the event of a disaster.

Individual Response

Many people often assume that the word ‘disaster’ pertains to national disasters that affect an entire city, or even a nation – but very often disasters take place that affect smaller communities, where very often the damage is equally as destructive.

Microgiving provides a platform where those in need of their own individual financial disaster response can receive help – if you are in need of support, please register as a recipient to see how our donors can help in your time of need.

Small Businesses Use Creativity to Give to Charity

As it is difficult for businesses to give to charity in the current economy, small businesses and entrepreneurs are turning to more creative avenues to accomplish their charitable efforts. From working with business partners to increase their impact, to supporting employee volunteer efforts, small business owners are changing the way in which they donate to charity.

Tight Cash Flows Provide New Opportunities to Give

Employers such as Gumas Advertising, Gentle Giant, Amnet and Idea Marketing may be feeling the strain of the economic climate, but these companies are still working to help take care of their communities and philanthropic causes. Rather than step away from charitable giving, they are using other avenues to help meet the needs of charitable resources. Some of these ideas not only benefit the way in which the employer can give to charity, but they benefit the charity as well.

For instance, Amnet used a charity golf sponsorship to continue support of the local Humane Society, while providing entertainment for its clients.

As another example, Idea Marketing not only provided the creative material for a campaign by Mi Casa Resource Center in Denver, it also used its business clout to negotiate a print and bulk mail discount for Mi Casa.

Gentle Giant, a moving company, used business downtime as a result of the economy to provide logistical services to Partners in Health, an organization that provides medical services to the poor. While providing those services, Gentle Giant was able to strike business relationships with those donating the medical supplies.

Helping People Affect Positive Change in the Lives of Others

Rather than stop charitable giving during tough economic times, these entrepreneurs seek creative ways to accomplish their cause. We at Microgiving.com greatly admire their spirit of genuine kindness and persistance, and in turn, we also seek to work with individuals across communities to creatively meet the needs of the less fortunate.  If you would like to donate online and give to charity, or can personally benefit from charitable assistance, please visit our website.