501derful.org
HelpAttack!, a new Austin-based start-up, offers nonprofit organizations the opportunity to collect year-end gifts through Twitter. The online service allows social media users the ability to give to their favorite philanthropic causes, simply by updating their social status online.
Online fundraising is the most rapidly growing way for nonprofits to receive funds from individuals. According to Convio, 35-42 percent of online giving occurs in the last two months of the year. HelpAttack! supports nonprofit organizations’ fundraising goals by collecting donations through a stream that readily syncs with users’ daily activities. Furthermore, the unique platform encourages repeat monthly giving, catalyzing the shift from year-end gifts to year-long giving.
With over $1,200 already given through the HelpAttack! post-to-pledge system, funds are currently being funneled to nonprofits throughout the United States. There are nearly 6,000 nonprofits to choose from, and new causes being adding every day, so anyone with a favorite cause and a Twitter account can take part.
“This new way to donate is easy, fun and offers a layer of social responsibility to online activities,” said Sarah Vela, HelpAttack!’s CEO. “We invite all nonprofit organizations seeking new ways to collect funding through year-end campaigns to visit the site, add themselves if they’re not already listed, and share this new way of giving with their supporters.”
While the pledge system offers nonprofit organizations a new-found funding stream, it also raises the organizations’ visibility on social networks. Many users choose to promote their personal pledge to their followers, and once engaged, are apt to support their organizations’ messages focused around fund drives and special events.
“Right from the start, HelpAttack! expanded CASA’s awareness in the community by featuring us on their site” stated Callie Langford, Communications Manager of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates). “HelpAttack! has really been a no-fuss way for us to receive additional donations, engage with new and old donors, and share details about our upcoming events.”
Currently focused on giving through Twitter, HelpAttack! has plans to soon engage with other social communities, allowing people the opportunity to pledge and give across multiple platforms.
