Top Ways Technology Has Influenced Philanthropy
Since the beginning of time, humans have been interested in giving back to those less fortunate than themselves. However, there were always obstacles that made it difficult for people to donate money and time directly: limited access to financial institutions, geographical isolation from donors and organizations that could benefit them, and a lack of awareness regarding who was most in need of help and how they could be helped.
Technology has changed everything: it’s easier than ever before to help your community, whether you’re donating funds or volunteering time. Here are the top ways technology has influenced philanthropy, according to Marc Zboch:
1. Technology has made it easier to give back
Mobile technology is making it possible for organizations of all sizes, including small nonprofits, to make donations on the go.
Additionally, the Internet has given nonprofits a platform to reach potential donors that they never had before. Social media platforms like Facebook have allowed charities to broaden their donor pool and attract more supporters.
Online fundraising tools allow organizations of all sizes, including small nonprofits, to create online campaigns easily. Philanthropists can use apps like GoFundMe and Mightycause to track their donations and spread awareness of their campaigns.
2. The Internet has given nonprofits a platform they never had before
For example, people may now reach potential donors around the world rather than only in their local community. Additionally, organizations can now communicate with people outside their geographic region and even country without needing a physical presence in those locations.You can follow a missionary through their daily adventures or see stories of individuals your non-profit help.
3. Social media has allowed charities to broaden their donor pool and attract more supporters
Social media platforms like Facebook have been an effective way for nonprofits to spread awareness of their cause and get people involved. Charities can also use the platform to post requests for volunteer help or donations, letting followers know how they can get involved.
Tips for attracting more supporters on social media include:
- Use your social media platform(s) to share stories and testimonials from those you’ve helped
- update people on the latest news and happenings within your organization
- Share photos and videos of donors, volunteers, and beneficiaries to encourage others to get involved
- Encourage current supporters to invite their friends and family members to join their social networks as well
In addition, Internet-based email lists allow organizations to reach potential donors quickly and cheaply. Current donors are eager to give you their email addresses when they understand that the money saved from expensive malings will deliver more benefit to the people you are trying to help. You can update donors more often and make donating an easy click away.
4. Online fundraising tools allow you to help your donors help you
Donor Management Systems let you know things like: who your best donors are; past donors who may have forgotten to give this year, what time of year certain donors like to give, what projects donors are most interested in, etc.
Nonprofits can use online fundraising tools like GoFundMe to create an effective fundraising campaign, regardless of their technical abilities. These applications make it easier than ever before for organizations to raise money by simply creating a digital account that follows them throughout the fundraising process.
5. Philanthropists can use apps to track not only their donations but also spread awareness of the campaign
Tips for using mobile technology:
- Donate directly through your phone by downloading the app of the organization you want to support
- Use text messaging when donating so that potential donors know exactly where their money is going
- Include a link to your campaign in your email signature so that anyone who emails you will have the opportunity to donate as well
- Share a link to your donation page on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter that have integrated sharing features
- Create a hashtag for your campaign and encourage people to use it when donating or to help to spread awareness
Final Thoughts
Philanthropy has been influenced greatly by technology in recent years. Non Profits can now reach potential donors that they never could before, share their campaigns with people on the go, and create effective online fundraising tools to help support organizations.
Overall, technology has allowed people to give back more efficiently than they ever have before, helping small organizations, nonprofits, and charities alike.