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Explore MicroGiving
Come! Take a Peek Inside!
Welcome to the coolest section of MicroGiving—the Explore page! This is where you will get the super-duper “lowdown” on everything that’s going on in our fabu-la-tastic community. We give you the 411 on current Green Initiatives and other exciting on-goings in the world of eco-activists and tree-huggers! In addition, you will find our Member Spotlight—here, we brag and boast about featured Donors, Recipients, and Charities that are just outright dandy!
Be sure to frequent this page monthly, as we are constantly posting new highlights that you simply don’t want to miss! (Oh, and the word around the block is. . . this is where the cool kids hang.)
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Charity Spotlight
April 2009
Please welcome Talbot Special Riders - Easton, MD. !
Talbot Special Riders provides therapeutic horseback riding therapy to challenged individuals with physical, mental and emotional disabilities - now in their 29th year of providing this therapy with certified therapists and instructors. Talbots is certified by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association and are totally volunteer based.
Visit Talbot Special Riders’ fundraising page and show some support!
Want to see your profile here?!
Would you like your profile to be featured in next month’s Explore section? Get out there and be active on the MicroGiving site! Drop by MicroGiving's Blog and share your thoughts, get in on the conversation in our community forum, and leave nice comments on other member's profile!
Thanks for stopping by, don’t forget to check back in next month. You never know, it might be YOU that we feature next!
Cheers,
The MicroGiving Team
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Donor Spotlight
April 2009
Coming soon...
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Recipient Spotlight
April 2009
Special thanks to Sheri for her active participation in our community!
1. What is your MicroGiving username?
Mom of 2
2. How long have you been a member?
Since October 2008
3. How did you learn about MicroGiving? (ie. friend, family, internet, advertisement, etc.)
I learned about MicroGiving through the Internet.
4. How often do you visit the MicroGiving site?
I come to Microgiving everyday - to read the blogs, see who's new, say hi, welcome others, and take a peak in the forum.
5. What makes MicroGiving unique to you?
MicroGiving is unique to me because it helped me realize I am not alone in my struggles. Often times we do feel alone and that we are the only one in the world it's happening too. I have been shown that it happens to many of us, and here [MicroGiving] we can all come together which is most unique. You see others reaching out to one another because we all understand where each of us are in life.
6. What advice would you give to new Recipient members?
To never, ever give up. Life can throw some pretty hard blows and often times back to back. Those struggles, be it what ever they are, will make you stronger and wiser in the end. The key to it though, is to talk to others and get involved in the site itself. It’s like a little community all of its own. Where we all are equals and no one looks down on you for what ever reason you find yourself here. We all know that life can be hard, but life can be lived to its fullest when you put your all into it.
7. Do you participate in MicroGiving's forum discussions? If you do, how often and which ones do you visit?
As of yet, I have not participated in the Forums. I stay so busy over on the blogs reading all the articles and posting. I have found such a wealth of information in each blog that can be applied to my own life...so it’s kinda held me prisoner over there! I do go and read the forums though and the most helpful one (for me) is the one for newcomers :)
8. Do you read MicroGiving's Blog? If so, what topics do you enjoy reading and what would you like to read more about?
I read every one of them and often go back and reread the articles in each one. The ones about personal development I find so helpful and encouraging too. When you read about how someone else deals with a crisis, it has the ability to help someone else through their own. As they say "two heads are better than one"!
I also like reading about how we can all help save our earth. We take this beautiful place for granted. Blogs like that also help me take my mind off the how and whys I found myself here. It reminds me that there is so much more to life than just being stuck in neutral, so to say. It teaches me to look around at my surroundings, to care more about them and to help keep it beautiful and "healthy."
What I would like to read more is how to help with self esteem issues. I know when people are down and struggling be it financially, health issues, or victims of a disaster… self esteem is one of the first things a person can begin to struggle with.
9. What MicroGiving feature or service has been the most helpful to you and why?
Feature? That would be the edit and delete feature :)
10. Has your life changed since you began visiting the MicroGiving site? If so, in what way?
Yes it has... the Microgiving website covers all areas of where "needs" are. We often get stuck and stressed out in our own need at the time. When I read the blogs about starving children in other countries, the homeless in our own country, natural disasters and the impact it has on families - it has helped me realize my problems seem so small whereas before they were just bigger than life itself!
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Charity Spotlight
March 2009
MicroGiving would like to draw attention to Brooks Lamkin is Saving Lion’s Camp, a fantastic fundraiser to support underprivileged children. Visit Brooks’ page now and support a wonderful cause!
Profile URL: Brooks Lamkin' MicroGiving Profile, click here!
Let me first introduce myself, my name is Christy Lauzon (also known as Brooks’ mom) and together we’re saving Florida Lion's Camp!
1. What does your Charity fundraiser support?
These are disadvantaged children who need help with bathing, basic bathroom needs, eating, walking, and going to bed - things we take for granted! This camp is very special. The kids partake in numerous activities along side a one-on-one counselor. One of their favorite things to do is swim, and year after year when these kids see each other again…it's priceless! It's a break for the child and parent. I understand people are cutting back due to the economy. That's why I'm so thankful for microgiving.com. These children face cut backs all the time. I refuse to lose their camp so that they face another cut back. By your donations, cost can be kept affordable for these kids.
2. How did you hear about MicroGiving?
As I was fundraising, Victoria's Secret took the time to reply to one of my appeals. They wrote me back and introduced me to microgiving.com. They must have thought it was a good cause!
3. What is so great about online fundraising?
The neat thing about online fundraising is that a person can keep track of all donations. Plus, you can go to a Recipient’s profile and look at their pictures so individuals can feel more confident about their money transaction.
I have met a lot of neat people on microgivig.com; people that are real with compelling stories. Even I have donated. Everyday when I get home the first thing I do is turn on my computer to read the stories. Then, you can blog, if you want. It's a site that people really care about what's happening. It's a little site with a big heart.
Thank you,
Christy Lauzon & Brooks Lamkin
Want to see your profile here?!
Would you like your profile to be featured in next month’s Explore section? Get out there and be active on the MicroGiving site! Share your support to others in the forum, voice your tips and advice on MicroGiving’s blog, and drop by other member’s profiles and leave them a word of encouragement! What goes around comes around!
Thanks guys! See you back here next month…
The MicroGiving Team
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Donor Spotlight
March 2009
This month’s Donor spotlight goes to JoAnnie! Her involvement on the MicroGiving site has been exemplary. We can’t thank JoAnnie enough for her compassion and dedication to helping the needs of others!
Profile URL: JoAnnie's MicroGiving Profile, Click Here!
1. Why do you give?
I give because God says to never turn down anyone! Do it for Him, and He will always takes care of us Ten-Fold! And because there are so many giving and kind people out there; I have been blessed in so many ways...
2. How does it feel to donate and help someone in need?
I feel wonderful when I can give to others. I love to make people feel like they matter, because they DO matter! The best reward you can get is to make a difference in the life of someone else, even if it means just lending an ear or making some phone calls for them...it shows love towards fellow man.
3. What makes MicroGiving unique and special to you?
What makes Microgiving very special to me is that I was welcomed so unconditionally and so kindly. The members all have something to give: help, unconditional love, compassion, kind words, encouragement, and a daily dose of “You’re gonna make it girl, hang in there!”
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Recipient Spotlight
March 2009
MicroGiving would like to thank Jamel - one of our fantastic recipients, for being such a wonderful member in our community! His active participation and supportive encouragement to other members in the forum, blog, and other profiles are worth a hundred donations!
Profile URL: Grey Jamel's MicroGiving Profile, click here!
1. What is your MicroGiving username?
Jamel
2. How long have you been a member?
Since January 2009
3. How did you learn about MicroGiving? (ie. friend, family, internet, advertisement, etc.)
I found MicroGiving through a close friend.
4. How often do you visit the MicroGiving site?
I visit the site several times daily!
5. What makes MicroGiving unique to you?
The MicroGiving Foundation is very unique because they care about people in need. I really admire the entire staff and the encouragement of other members during my application process. I was accepted with open arms.
6. What advice would you give to new Recipient members?
I would not hesitate to let a new Recipient know how gracious this Foundation is to help people who are in need.
7. Do you participate in MicroGiving's forum discussions? If you do, how often and which ones do you visit?
I plan to participate more in the MicroGiving forum so I can reach out to more members and learn more about the community.
8. Do you read MicroGiving's blog? If so, what topics do you enjoy reading and what would you like to read more about?
It is a pleasure to read MicroGiving’s blog. The truth is, all of the topics are so inspiring when you read them! They open your eyes to the importance of reaching out to people all over this nation who are in need.
9. What MicroGiving feature or service has been the most helpful to you and why?
The MicroGiving Service itself touches me most. MicroGiving give you hope and has made me realize, although the road is presently dark, at end of the road there is a bright light waiting.
10. Has your life changed since you began visiting the MicroGiving site? If so, in what way?
My whole life has changed since I found MicroGiving in many different ways. This is my first experience in my present situation. I was in a dream world about my accident, but after visiting this site I realized there are many people all over this nation going through similar situations. I have learned to accept my accident.
To all Staff and Members, keep up the good work!
Jamel & Family.
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Charity Spotlight
Febuary 2009
Moore-Weis Mission Statement:
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The Moore-Weis Children's Center of Austin is committed to providing a total educational and therapeutic experience for children two through eight years of age experiencing communication disabilities. Our natural setting creates a positive and nurturing environment empowering children to develop effective, life-long communication skills. The Moore-Weis Children's Center of Austin educates and encourages parents and the community to become advocates for all children.
How did you hear about MicroGiving?
We heard about Microgiving through one of our parents who used to work with one of the founders of the site.
Have you found online fundraising successful?
Online fundraising is a convenient way for donors to support your cause through giving and it is also an effective way to reach out to new donors.
How has MicroGiving helped you?
We have encountered great success since joining Microgiving! We have raised almost $4000 and donations keep coming daily! I think the donors appreciate being able to see the monetary goal they are working towards and knowing they are making a difference with each transaction. Our children, families and staff could not be more thankful for Microgiving!
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In Great Memory of
Jason Strauss & John Alsop
January 2009
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It’s difficult to swallow the tragedies that have taken us so abruptly. We are silenced and stunned in the name of life’s fragility, as we mourn the loss of two very special people. We are more aware these days of just how much we love and value those who are still among us.
Both Jason Strauss and John Alsop were exceptional members of our team. We lost more than important members, we lost two extraordinary people. We would like, therefore, to take a moment to memorialize Jason and John, both of whom were a tremendous support to MicroGiving’s operation.
Jason and John were exemplary people. From the early stages of MicroGiving, they supported our mission and cause. Throughout the time that they were with us, they gave considerably without yield. We owe them our greatest appreciation for their faith and support in MicroGiving. Although they are no longer with us, they will forever be remembered for their spirit of vitality and the hope they gave to the many lives and families that they touched. |
“He who has gone, so we but cherish his memory, abides with us, more potent, nay, more present than the living man.”
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| Jason Strauss |
Jon Alsop |
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| Recipient Spotlight |
| October 2008 |
‘Tis time to draw dazzling light upon October’s most splendid member—three cheers and two thumbs for—Paige! Isn’t she pretty?! |
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We just want to thank you for your time, involvement, and beautiful spirit here at MicroGiving. Keep it up Paige!
1. What is your MicroGiving username?
Paige
2. How long have you been a member?
A couple of weeks!
3. How did you first hear about MicroGiving? (i.e., friend, family, search engine, advertisement, etc.)
I was referred by Rayhawk from the ‘Needy or Greedy’ website.
4. How often do you visit the MicroGiving site?
I check it every day. I am also looking at who else is looking for help, what they are looking for, and to see if I am able to help them at all.
5. What makes MicroGiving unique to you?
I think the idea in itself is unique. There are a great deal of organizations that deal with donating money to people in large groups, or donating large sums of money. However, because MicroGiving focuses on individuals and allows people to donate whatever they are able to, it really allows EVERYONE to give.
6. What advice would you give to new Recipient members?
I would just tell them that it is crucial to get to know others on the website. If you ever have problems, the other people that you have talked to will be able to help you and guide you in the right direction. Also, BE PATIENT! It was difficult for me starting up because the process did take a while; however, I'm very glad that everything was done right, and that my profile really displays who I am as an individual.
7. What tips would you give to people out there who are giving or receiving donations on the MicroGiving site?
Again, get to know others. When I receive donations, I send messages to those donors and personally thank them for their donation. It is good to build these relationships so that in the future, when you are able to, you can help out others!
8. Do you participate in MicroGiving's forum discussions? If you do, how often and which ones do you visit?
Unfortunately, I am still learning about the forums :) I have made a few posts with questions, and say "hi" to everyone, but have not spent extensive time in the forums.
9. If you participate in MicroGiving's forum, what reasons would you give a new MicroGiving member to encourage them to join in?
It's a great way to get your questions answered, or to get to know others who share your same interests!
10. Has your life changed since you began visiting the MicroGiving Site? If so, in what way?
Since first visiting MicroGiving, I have gained a new hope. Although I am still going through hard financial times, I am better able to cope with what is going on because I know that I am not alone. I have had very generous people help me out as much as they can. And for that, I am very grateful.
11. What MicroGiving feature or service would you say has been the most helpful to you and why?
I really like the FAQ both under the help tab, and in the forums. It really helps me to find out the information that I need in a timely manner. |
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| Charity Spotlight |
| October 2008 |
Carissa Gaudio - 'A Collide with Calamity'
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The 13th of July, 2008 hallmarked a tragedy that would forever change the Gaudio family. The news came violently without warning; the family was flooded with shock when they received the news that their daughter had been rushed to the emergency trauma center.
Carissa Gaudio was driving home when the outright formidable occurred-- her car unexpectedly got stuck on a railroad track leaving her vulnerable to the life-changing charge of an oncoming train. After a month of intensive care in critical condition, Carissa's family faced devastating medical expenses of over one million dollars. The family was forced to bring Carissa home along with medical equipment and the foreboding challenge: to care for a young girl whose life was now forever changed. |
In the words of Victor Frankl: "We can discover this meaning of life in three different ways:
(1) by doing a deed;
(2) by experiencing a value; and
(3) by suffering.
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Donor Spotlight
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September 2008
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Okie dokie, the time has come to shower one of our stupendous and fantastical Donors with praise and laudation! The trumpets blare, the sparklers flare—members, members, everywhere—cast your kudos in the air! Great thunder from the heavens declare. . . . . . Jooooohn Ferber! (Everyone in harmonic chorus: Horah!).
The benefactor behind extraordinary benevolence, John has changed the face of philanthropy and given the world something remarkably life-changing. . . MicroGiving. Thousands of active members have renewed hope and an inspiration that will continue to resonate throughout the course of the future. With all of the appreciation that mere words can convey: Thank you John! And we just gotta say, We truly love you!
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Recipient Spotlight
September 2008
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| Recipient Member Stasia! |
| Profile URL: StasiaJ26's MicroGiving Profile, Click Here! |
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1. What is your MicroGiving username?
StasiaJ26
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| 2. How long have you been a member? |
Since February 2008 under 2 different accounts
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| 3. How did you first hear about MicroGiving? (i.e., friend, family, search engine, advertisement, etc.) |
A friend
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| 4. How often do you visit the MicroGiving site? |
Almost daily
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| 5. What makes MicroGiving unique to you? |
The diversity. The people there are so different from one another, yet the flow of the site is so peaceful and harmonious.
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| 6. What advice would you give to new Recipient members? |
I love the support I get and give in the MG community. Most problems don't necessarily need money, just someone who can see things from a different angle. For new members I would advise to be positive and have all proper paperwork needed to support their request. Don't get discouraged, it can take time.
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| 7. What tips would you give to people out there who are giving or receiving donations on the MicroGiving site? |
Always thank your donors. Donors are well out numbered by recipients and they can and should be very choosy about who they are helping. If you don't show your appreciation that donor may never help you again.
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| 8. Do you participate in MicroGiving's forum discussions? If you do, how often and which ones do you visit? |
Yes I am in the forums several times a week. I try to do a weekly freebie thread but the freebies can be difficult to find sometimes. I also give support and advice and ask for it when needed. And I have actually found I enjoy helping others than receiving help myself.
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| 9. If you participate in MicroGiving's forum, what reasons would you give a new MicroGiving member to encourage them to join in? |
The love that is spread there. The friendships make this site well worth it.
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| 10. Has your life changed since you began visiting the MicroGiving Site? If so, in what way? |
Not really my life but more of my outlook on it. I have always known that there are people who have hard times, but I always pictured them in a constant depression. Boy, have the members here made me see it differently. Yes they struggle and worry, but they also laugh. A lot.
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| 11. What MicroGiving feature or service would you say has been the most helpful to you and why? |
The forums. Even if the participants couldn't directly help they try to find somewhere to try. And they do that for everyone.
“MicroGiving is much more than money going to and from. It’s mostly about the friendships and support that people stumble upon in the forums and all throughout the site. We laugh and cry together. We "meet" each other and our families too. The bond that grows on this site is rarely seen on another internet venue. Their struggle is my struggle and we work through it together. And when we don't, we face the uncertainty together. And though at times we can't fall any further we still see that silver lining on that storm cloud. And then, we celebrate together.”
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| Thank you Stasia for being an exemplary member of the MicroGiving community. We are very proud to have you! |
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Charity Spotlight
September 2008
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Vital For Children, 501(c)3 Nonprofit Organization Operating in USA, UK, and India.
View Vital's Fundraising Page
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And now feast your eyes upon September's most delightful Charity. If thereís any group in particular that stand out as the dandiest of dandies, these people win a whopping slew of glitzy gold starsomeet Vital! They've turned an extraordinary vision into an extraordinary mission.
Working towards a world where no child must endure the injustice of poverty, Vital has boldly stepped in and put their foot down upon a world of suffering. Whereís that exactly? In the very heart of Calcutta. From the red light district to the slums and the slave trade, Vital is tremendously changing the quality of life among untold numbers of children. MicroGiving is proud to introduce Vital as our true blue partner. You gotta check eem out! |
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