Social Networking Charity Cases

Here’s an article from the WSJ about how a number of charities are utilizing online social networking sites to reshape the way they raise funds. As is well known, people are 100 times more likely to donate money to a cause when the appeal is made by family or friends rather than by an anonymous solicitation, and the web is fast becoming the place that people find easier to pass along information and make contact. It is now just as easy to donate online as it is to buy something on amazon or ebay. Though still in its early stages, overall online giving – which currently represents 2% to 3% of giving in the U.S. – is increasing by some 50% per year. Will it ultimately increase overall donations? That has yet to be seen.