Unlocking the Potential of Online Giving

11/05/24

blog

When we look at the world around us, we cannot help but acknowledge that many are in need. It is a source of discomfort – but it can be a source of action. The ability to help our fellow citizens is a superpower that all of us have. No matter how much we earn, or how little time we have, we can all give back to society – we just need the intent to donate online. Let us explore how, by online donation, India-based beneficiaries can be empowered.

What are online donations?

First, let us understand what online donations are. Online donations, in their simplest definition, refer to gifts of money that can be made over the Internet. Instead of donating cash or via cheque transfer, we can donate online to a cause and organisation of our choosing. Common beneficiaries of these donations include charities, nonprofits, and organisations working for good causes.

Why make online donations?

Kindness is a human quality ingrained in all of us, and we are all drawn to the noble idea of being able to support, save, and uplift someone else. From offering food or medical care to protecting animals and the environment or even offering protection after natural disasters, many causes appeal to our conscience.

Yet, we cannot always reach people who need this kind of help. In today’s increasingly busy times, we also often cannot reach the organisations enabling or facilitating this kind of help. What we can do in, today’s times, is to instantly support those who can make a difference. This is why, with one online donation, India organisations can be supported, and their missions propelled forward.

Therefore, donating online offers the ultimate convenience: you can give from literally anywhere with an internet connection, whether at home or on the go. No need to go anywhere special or do anything except a few simple clicks. Additionally, it also allows you to give anonymously if desired. Many online donation platforms allow you to give without providing your name or personal details if you wish to remain anonymous.

How can online donations be made?

You don’t have to mail or hand over physical money yourself. Everyday financial instruments, such as debit or credit cards, net banking, or third-party online payment services can all be used to donate digitally and securely. The money gets electronically transferred and deposited quickly and efficiently into the charity’s account. Donating online is therefore much faster and more effective than giving in person. Donating to the organisation’s website or app makes the experience much faster and streamlined.

Examples of Inspirational Online Giving

There is a huge list of ways that online donations make a significant and measurable impact. Millions are regularly raised in a few days in the aftermath of major natural disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, and wildfires. This funding is used to mobilise immediate relief efforts and rebuild infrastructure. Apps and web platforms for crowd-fundraising are very popular and prolific ways to generate online donations for creative projects, medical treatments, charitable ventures and more. Further, companies and organisations also organise charitable giving events to unlock the charitable instinct of their employees.

While there is no limit to how much one can give (or how many times), it is a decision that must be considered carefully. The decision to donate is a conversation you must have with your friends, families, and loved ones. It is great to donate – it is even better to donate regularly even if one starts their journey of giving with small amounts. After all, as we grow in our careers, we will be able to donate more and aim our donations at both strategic and on-ground work.

Bal Raksha Bharat (Save the Children), has been tirelessly working since 2004 to ensure that every child in India experiences a happy childhood and has access to a bright future. The organisation uses donations to work towards the Government of India’s vision to create a “Bharat” where children thrive, grow, and develop in a safe and nurturing environment. It collaborates closely with government agencies at the national, state, and district levels to implement child welfare projects across 15 states and 3 Union Territories, and has touched the lives of over 10 million children since 2008.

Soumi Halder

Manager-Program Campaign and Communication, Programme Support

“With over 20 years of dedicated experience in the social development sector, I am passionate about championing child rights and community empowerment through innovative communication strategies. I am Manager for Programme Campaigns and Communication with Bal Raksha Bharat (Save the Children)."