About

The Changing Landscape of Fundraising:

A Call to Support Grassroots Efforts

Fundraising has always been a challenging endeavor, but recent years have seen an increase in complications and unethical practices that make it even harder for legitimate organizations to thrive. My own journey through the world of fundraising has revealed a lot about how complex and, at times, corrupt the sector can be. From personal experience with unethical not-for-profit organizations to witnessing the rise of sophisticated scams, I’ve come to understand the critical need for change and support for grassroots efforts.

Years ago, I was deeply involved with a not-for-profit organization that, on the surface, seemed dedicated to helping children and parents. I invested significant time and effort, leveraging my expertise in website development and marketing to support their cause. However, it quickly became apparent that the organization was merely a vehicle for profit, benefiting only the founders and their close associates. This experience was a profound wake-up call, highlighting the prevalent issue of unethical practices in fundraising and the ease with which businesses and politicians can turn a blind eye.

The rise of fraudulent fundraising schemes has left many legitimate organizations struggling to secure the necessary funds to support their efforts. Scams have become increasingly sophisticated, and public trust in fundraising campaigns is at an all-time low. Stories of scams and misuse of funds have become all too common, causing widespread skepticism among potential donors. This skepticism is not unfounded, given the history of fundraising practices where a significant portion of funds raised went to high-paid managers or misleading claims about the impact of donations.

A decade or two ago, we saw door-to-door sales and mall setups peddling overpriced chocolate bars as a way to raise funds. Despite the high costs, a minimal percentage of the funds actually supported the intended cause. The situation did not improve with time; fundraising companies began offering products at inflated prices, making it challenging for organizations to raise meaningful amounts. Consequently, participation dwindled, and these companies often faded away.

In recent years, many organizations have turned to bulk purchasing of products to sell at retail prices, hoping to bridge the funding gap. However, this approach requires a significant initial investment and often leads to unsold stock. The challenge is exacerbated by the proliferation of sophisticated scams targeting fundraising efforts, making it even more difficult for genuine organizations to raise the funds they need.

Despite these challenges, there are positive developments. More online businesses with established brands are allowing organizations to use codes for fundraising, which has provided new opportunities. However, this has also led to increased competition, with larger, better-funded groups often overshadowing smaller ones. Similarly, government-funded charities frequently use their resources for high-cost marketing and advertising, putting smaller groups at a disadvantage.

The evolving landscape of fundraising calls for creative solutions and a shift in how we support smaller, grassroots organizations. It is essential to focus on empowering these groups to ensure they can continue their valuable work within our communities. The small, local organizations are often the backbone of community support, and without them, many vital services might no longer be available.

One approach to supporting these smaller groups involves fostering partnerships with local small businesses. By collaborating with these businesses, we can create mutually beneficial opportunities that support grassroots efforts and raise awareness of the importance of small businesses in our communities. This approach aligns with the philosophy of LIFE – Love Is For Everyone – where acceptance and collaboration are key to building a stronger, more supportive community.

In summary, the current state of fundraising presents significant challenges, but also opportunities for innovation and support. By working together and supporting grassroots efforts, we can make a meaningful difference and ensure that our communities continue to benefit from the hard work and dedication of those who are often working behind the scenes. It is time to recognize the value of smaller organizations and the critical role they play in creating a more compassionate and connected world.